The name Hollis has its origins in the Old English language, derived from the combination of the words "hol" meaning hollow or hole, and "leah" meaning a meadow or clearing in a forest. It likely emerged as a descriptive name for someone who lived near a hollow or depression in a meadow or woodland area.

The earliest recorded use of Hollis as a given name dates back to the 13th century in England. One of the earliest known bearers of the name was Hollis of Ermington, a landholder in Devon, England, mentioned in records from around 1275.

In the 14th century, a notable figure named Hollis Ayloffe was recorded as a landowner and member of the gentry in Berkshire, England. He lived during the reign of King Edward III, circa 1330-1380.

During the English Renaissance, Hollis Greville (1554-1619) was a prominent figure, serving as a member of Parliament and courtier to Queen Elizabeth I. He was also a patron of the arts and a supporter of the Virginia Company, which established the first permanent English settlement in North America.

In the 17th century, Hollis Frampton (1636-1701) was an English politician and member of the House of Commons, representing the borough of Weymouth and Melcombe Regis.

Another notable bearer of the name was Hollis French (1779-1849), an American politician and lawyer who served as the 22nd Governor of New Hampshire from 1831 to 1838.

While the name Hollis has historically been more common in English-speaking countries, it has also been used in other cultures and languages over time, likely adopted from its English origins.