The name Travis is an English given name derived from the Old French name Travers, which means "cross" or "traverse." It is believed to have originated from the Latin word "traversus," meaning "across" or "athwart." The name likely emerged in the late Middle Ages, around the 12th or 13th century.

Travis was initially used as a surname, with some of the earliest recorded instances appearing in medieval English records. One of the earliest known bearers of the surname was John Travers, who was mentioned in the Pipe Rolls of Gloucestershire in 1176.

The transition of Travis from a surname to a given name is thought to have occurred in the 16th or 17th century, as it became more common for individuals to adopt surnames as first names. However, there are no definitive historical records of the name's earliest use as a first name.

One of the earliest notable individuals with the first name Travis was Travis Higginson, an English colonist and landowner in the Virginia Colony in the 17th century. He was born in 1623 and played a significant role in the early settlement of the colony.

Another early bearer of the name was Travis Combs, an American pioneer and explorer who was born in 1744 in Virginia. He is known for his contributions to the exploration and settlement of the American West.

In the 19th century, the name gained popularity with the birth of Travis Callaway, an American politician and lawyer who served as a U.S. Representative from Georgia. He was born in 1809 and played a prominent role in the political landscape of the time.

One of the most famous individuals with the name Travis was William Barrett Travis, an American military officer and lawyer who commanded the Texian forces at the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. He was born in 1809 and died during the famous siege, becoming a legendary figure in Texas history.

Another notable Travis was Travis Wilkinson, an American soldier and recipient of the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration in the United States. He was born in 1838 and received the award for his heroic actions during the American Civil War.

Throughout history, the name Travis has been associated with individuals from various walks of life, including explorers, politicians, military figures, and more. While its origins can be traced back to the Middle Ages, the name has endured and continues to be used as a given name in the modern era.