Aris is a name with roots dating back to ancient Greece. It is derived from the Greek word "aristos," which means "the best" or "excellent." The name was popular in ancient Greek culture, where excellence and virtue were highly valued.

In Greek mythology, there are several notable figures with the name Aris or variations of it. One example is Ariston, the son of the legendary king Agamemnon and Clytemnestra. Another is Aristaeus, a minor deity associated with agriculture, hunting, and beekeeping.

The name Aris gained wider recognition during the Hellenistic period, which began in the 4th century BCE. It was a popular name among philosophers, scholars, and artists of that era. One of the most famous individuals with this name was Aristarchus of Samos, a Greek astronomer who proposed the heliocentric theory, suggesting that the Earth revolves around the Sun.

In the Byzantine Empire, which lasted from the 4th to the 15th century CE, the name Aris was often used in royal and noble circles. Notable examples include Aris Philanthropenos, a prominent Byzantine nobleman and military leader who lived in the 11th century, and Aris Doukas Kamateros, a Byzantine aristocrat and courtier from the 12th century.

During the Renaissance period, the name Aris experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly among humanist scholars and artists who were inspired by ancient Greek culture. One of the most notable figures from this time was Aris Tzetzes, a 12th-century Byzantine scholar and writer who produced commentaries on ancient Greek literature.

In more recent history, there have been several notable individuals with the name Aris. Aris Velouchiotis was a Greek communist revolutionary and leader of the Greek Resistance during World War II. Aris Konstantinidis was a renowned Greek architect and urban planner who made significant contributions to the modern development of Athens in the 20th century. Aris San, born in 1940, is a Greek-French singer and actor known for his contributions to the French pop music scene.