The name Maris is believed to have originated from the Latin language. It is derived from the word "mare," which means "sea" or "ocean." This suggests that the name may have been initially given to individuals who lived near the sea or had some connection with maritime activities.

In ancient Roman times, the name Maris was relatively uncommon, but it was used as a feminine form of the male name Marius. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Maris can be found in the writings of the Roman historian Livy, who mentioned a woman named Maris in his work "Ab Urbe Condita" (History of Rome).

During the Middle Ages, the name Maris gained popularity in certain regions of Europe, particularly in Germanic and Scandinavian countries. It was often used as a derivative of the name Maria, which was widespread among Christian communities due to its association with the Virgin Mary.

One of the earliest known historical figures with the name Maris was Maris the Persian, a 4th-century Christian martyr who was executed for his religious beliefs during the reign of the Sassanian king Shapur II. Another notable figure was Maris of Chalcedon, a 5th-century Byzantine historian and theologian who wrote extensively on the Council of Chalcedon.

In the Middle Ages, a prominent figure named Maris was Maris the Iberian, a 7th-century Christian missionary and saint who played a significant role in spreading Christianity in Georgia and the Caucasus region. She is venerated in the Eastern Orthodox and Georgian Orthodox churches.

During the Renaissance period, the name Maris was occasionally used in Europe, although it remained relatively uncommon. One notable individual with this name was Maris Pijnanker, a 16th-century Dutch painter known for her still-life paintings and portraits.

In more recent history, a few notable individuals with the name Maris include Maris Cauffmann, a 19th-century Belgian writer and feminist; Maris Martinsons, a 20th-century Latvian poet and translator; and Maris Ridder, a 20th-century Norwegian actress and singer.