The name Cris has its origins in the Latin language and is derived from the name Christianus, which means "a Christian" or "follower of Christ." The name Christianus itself is rooted in the Greek word "Christos," meaning "anointed one," which refers to Jesus Christ.

The name Cris emerged as a shortened form of the name Christianus during the Middle Ages in various European regions with strong Christian traditions. It was particularly common in areas where Latin was widely used, such as Italy, Spain, and France.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Cris can be found in the writings of the 12th-century Italian philosopher and theologian, St. Thomas Aquinas, who mentions a person named "Cris" in his works.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Cris. One of the most famous was Cris Velasco (1923-2014), a renowned Mexican painter and muralist known for his vibrant depictions of indigenous Mexican culture and traditions.

Another notable figure was Cris Aravan (1892-1973), a Romanian poet and journalist who played a significant role in the cultural and literary movements of his time. His poetry explored themes of love, nature, and the human experience.

In the world of sports, Cris Carter (born 1965) is a former American football player who had a successful career in the National Football League (NFL) and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013.

Cris Villongas (1955-1995) was a prominent Filipino human rights activist and journalist who fought against the oppressive regime of Ferdinand Marcos. He was killed for his activism and became a symbol of resistance against injustice.

Lastly, Cris Kabongo (born 1992) is a professional basketball player from the Democratic Republic of Congo who has played in various leagues around the world, including the NBA G League and leagues in France and Greece.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have borne the name Cris throughout history, highlighting its diverse cultural and geographical roots.