Morris

boyLatin

Morris is a boy name of Latin, via English origin, meaning “Dark-skinned, Moorish”.

MeaningDark-skinned, Moorish
GenderBoy
OriginLatin, via English
PronunciationMOR-is
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited Kingdom, United States

Meaning and origin of Morris

Morris is an English form of Maurice, from the Latin Mauritius, derived from Maurus, 'a Moor', and often taken to mean 'dark'. It was used in medieval England and became a common surname. In the nineteenth and twentieth centuries it was frequently chosen by Jewish immigrant families in English-speaking countries as an anglicisation of Moshe. Designer William Morris is a famous surname bearer.

Is Morris a religious name?

Morris has no direct religious meaning, though Saint Maurice, a third-century Roman martyr, bore the original Latin form.

How popular is Morris?

Mostly a vintage first name today, though more common as a surname.

Gifts with the name Morris

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Spellings and variants of Morris

MauriceMoritzMauricioMaurizio

Names similar to Morris

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Morris mean?

Morris means 'Dark-skinned, Moorish'. It is of Latin, via English origin.

Does Morris have a religious meaning?

Morris has no direct religious meaning, though Saint Maurice, a third-century Roman martyr, bore the original Latin form.

How do you pronounce Morris?

Morris is pronounced MOR-is.

Is Morris a boy or girl name?

Morris is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.