The name Curtis is an English masculine given name of Old French origin. It derives from the Old French word "courtois", which means "courtly", "polite", or "well-bred". This word itself comes from the Latin word "curtis", meaning "court" or "courtyard".

The name Curtis first appeared in medieval England during the Norman conquest of the 11th century. It was initially used as a descriptive surname for someone who was associated with a court or who exhibited courtly manners. Over time, it transitioned into use as a masculine given name.

One of the earliest recorded bearers of the name Curtis was Curtis de Peitevin, a Norman knight who lived in the late 11th century. He is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, which was a record of landholders commissioned by William the Conqueror.

Another notable historical figure with the name Curtis was Curtis Mayfield (1942-1999), an American singer-songwriter, record producer, and one of the most influential figures in soul, funk, and rhythm and blues music. He was a highly influential artist and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.

Curtis LeMay (1906-1990) was a highly decorated American general who played a crucial role in the strategic bombing campaigns against Germany and Japan during World War II. He later served as the Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force.

Curtis Bernhardt (1899-1981) was a German-American film director and producer who worked in both Hollywood and Europe. Some of his notable films include "Mildred Pierce" (1945) and "The Bribe" (1949).

Curtis Mayfield (1942-1999), an American singer-songwriter, record producer, and one of the most influential figures in soul, funk, and rhythm and blues music, is another prominent bearer of the name. He was a highly influential artist and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.

Curtis Hanson (1945-2016) was an American film director, producer, and screenwriter. He is best known for directing the critically acclaimed films "L.A. Confidential" (1997), for which he won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, and "Wonder Boys" (2000).