Surname Gillis - Meaning and Origin

A DNA-Driven Journey into the Gillis Surname with iGENEA: A Genealogical Review

A journey with iGENEA DNA test unravels new chapters of the Gillis family lineage and provides not just unique personal insights but also paves a path towards connecting with distant relatives sharing the same surname.

P. Gillis

Gillis: What does the surname Gillis mean?

The surname Gillis is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Gille Iosa, which means "servant of Jesus". The name is a testament of religious attachment and faith. It is commonly spread across regions of Scotland and Northern Ireland. However, it's also prevalent within other countries due to historical migration, particularly in the United States, Canada, and Australia. In some instances, Gillis can also be a variation of the Greek name Aegidius, which means "goat-skin shield" or "young goat". While the name is predominantly used as a surname, it can also be found as a given name.

Gillis: Where does the name Gillis come from?

The surname Gillis is of Scottish origin. It evolved from the name Gille Escoib, a Gaelic term meaning 'The Bishop's Servant.' Over time, it transformed into various forms, such as Gilles, Gillespie, and eventually Gillis. This surname has several variations worldwide due to regional pronunciations and spellings.

This surname is common in Scotland, particularly in the regions of Midlothian and Fife. In addition to Scotland, the name Gillis has been shown to be prevalent in the United States, largely due to Scottish emigration to America during the 17th and 18th centuries. Canadians of Scottish descent also frequently bear the Gillis surname, especially in the provinces of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Furthermore, people with the surname Gillis can be found across various parts of Europe, particularly in countries like Belgium and the Netherlands.

Variations of the surname Gillis

The surname Gillis has several variants and spellings that have emerged over the centuries, many of which are used in different countries and regions, reflecting cultural and linguistic differences. Some common spellings and variants of Gillis include Gilles, Gillies, Gills, Gilis, Gilliss, Gillish, Gyllis, and Gylliss. Many of these variations can be attributed to phonetic translations or transliterations.

Additionally, the surnames Gill, Gillan, Gillen, and Gillon may also bear a connection to Gillis, particularly in regions like Scotland and Ireland where such variations often stem from the Gaelic tradition of adding prefixes or suffixes to names.

The origin of Gillis is actually Scottish, deriving from the personal name Elias, which was popular during the Middle Ages due to the Crusader's influence. Another theory suggests it possibly derives from the Gaelic and Celtic name "Gilleasbaig" which means "bishop's servant".

The Gillis surname and its variants are prominent in English-speaking countries but also in other parts of Europe such as Belgium, Netherlands, and Scandinavia. The cultural and geographical influences lead to a diverse range of spellings and variants.

Famous people with the name Gillis

• Terry Gillis: A Canadian politician who served as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward Island.
• Wayne Gillis: A retired professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL).
• Ryan Gillis: A Canadian soccer player who competed in the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship.
• Jean Gillis: An American politician who served in the Massachusetts Senate.
• Jack Gillis: An American author, consumer advocate, and automotive expert.
• Mike Gillis: A former professional ice hockey player and former president and general manager of the Vancouver Canucks.
• Lorna Gillis: A Canadian pianist known for her performances of contemporary and traditional classical music.
• Edward Gillis: A public servant in Prince Edward Island, Canada and served as the province's Clerk of the Executive Council.
• Jenny Gillis: A Swedish Olympic swimmer who competed in the 2008 Olympic Games.
• Scott Gillis: An American guitarist known for playing in the Christian metal band Barren Cross.
• Paula Gillis: An American writer, artist and director known for her work on numerous animated television series.
• David Gillis: A notable classical guitarist.
• Pamela Rabe (born Pamela June Koropatnick): An Australian-Canadian actress is known for her work on Australia stage and screen with the stage name “Gillis”.

Other surnames

GilliamGilliatGilliattGilliesGillilandGillinGillinghadGillinghamGillinghartGillinghortGillispieGillitt