Find out how popular the first name Moris has been for the last 40 years (from 1984 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Moris by gender

Based on the last 40 years of data, Moris is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Moris.

The history of the first name Moris

The name Moris has its origins in the ancient Greek language, deriving from the word "moros," which means "foolish" or "dull." This name emerged during the classical period of Greek civilization, around the 5th century BCE. It was initially a derogatory term used to describe someone lacking intelligence or wisdom.

Over time, the name Moris evolved and gained acceptance as a personal name. It spread across the Mediterranean region, particularly in areas influenced by Greek culture and trade routes. Variations of the name, such as Morris, Maurice, and Mauricio, also emerged in different languages and cultures.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Moris can be found in ancient Greek literature, including the works of the playwright Aristophanes, who lived from around 446 BCE to 386 BCE. In his comedies, Aristophanes used the name Moris as a character, likely referencing its original meaning of foolishness.

Throughout history, several notable figures bore the name Moris. One prominent example is Moris the Elder, a Byzantine scholar and philosopher who lived in the 11th century CE. He is known for his contributions to the fields of logic and metaphysics.

Another historical figure with the name Moris was Moris of Crete, a 13th-century Venetian explorer and trader. He is credited with establishing trade routes between Venice and the Levant region, contributing to the flourishing of the Venetian Republic's maritime empire.

In the realm of literature, Moris Blanchot was a prominent 20th-century French writer and philosopher. Born in 1907 and died in 2003, he was known for his influential works on literature, philosophy, and critical theory.

Moris Meszaros, a Hungarian-born film director and screenwriter, also left a lasting impact on the world of cinema. Born in 1929, he is renowned for his politically charged and socially conscious films, such as "Diary for My Children" and "Diary for My Parents."

Lastly, Moris Farhi, a Turkish-British writer and playwright, made significant contributions to literature and theater. Born in 1935, he is best known for his novels and plays that explore themes of identity, displacement, and cultural fusion.

While the name Moris may have originated from a less flattering meaning, it has transcended its initial connotation and become a respected and widely used name throughout history. Its rich cultural heritage and the accomplishments of those who bore this name have contributed to its enduring legacy.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Moris was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Moris, please contact us.

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