Surname Criss - Meaning and Origin
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Criss: What does the surname Criss mean?
The last name Criss is of German origin, specifically derived from a Rhineland town called Kreuz. The name is derived from the German verb ‘kreuzen’which means 'to cross', and is often associated with the symbol of the Christian Cross. In the Middle Ages, the name was also associated with those who made a pilgrimage to the Shrine of the Holy Cross.
In modern times, Criss is seen as a unique surname, with both German and French roots. It is also common in Dutch and Scandinavian cultures. In the United States, it’s often seen as a variant spelling of the more common “Kreis”.
The name Criss is also associated with the Christian faith due to its connection to the cross. The symbol of the cross is an important part of the Christian faith and the name Criss is often associated with a person of strong faith and determination, a person who is willing to make sacrifices in order to succeed.
Overall, the last name Criss carries a lot of history and is associated with both German and French roots. It’s also strongly associated with the Christian faith due to its connection to the cross, symbolizing a person of strong faith and determination.
Order DNA origin analysisCriss: Where does the name Criss come from?
The last name Criss is commonly found in the United States and its derivations. Records indicate that it is especially popular in the states of Delaware, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia, although there are Criss families throughout the country.
The most likely origin of the surname is German, as it is composed of the elements “Kreiss” and “Kriss” which mean “circle” and “cross” respectively. In fact, the earliest spelling recorded in Germany is “Kreiss”. Over time, however, the pronunciation began to change as English speakers encountered the surname and leading to variations such as “Criss”.
One interesting peculiar characteristic of the name is that it can also be used as a female given name, typically spelled “Kriss”, with some derivatives being “Kryss”, “Kris”, “Kress”, and “Kies”. It is speculated that this usage of the name was a remnant of Germanic pagan customs as the name was used to invoke pagan gods.
Today, we still see many instances of the name being used as both a surname and as a female first name, with the name being distributed fairly widely throughout the United States and its derivations.
Variations of the surname Criss
The surname Criss is of Irish and German origin. Its variants include Christopher, Chrisman, Crisham, Crismon, Christman, Crymes, and Crisp.
The Irish variant of the surname is derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Críostóir, meaning 'son of Christopher'. It consists of the elements “crios”, meaning “Christ/anointed”, and “tear”, meaning “son” or “descendant”. In this form, the surname is most commonly found in County Cork in Ireland.
The German variants of the surname derive from the Christian personal name “Christmann”, meaning “Christ-man”. In this form, the surname is most commonly found in areas such as southern Bavaria.
Alternate spellings of the surname include Crys, Cress, Cris, Crisse, Chris, Criss, Cryss, Crisse, and Ceryss. All of these spellings are ultimately derived from the same origin, but have evolved in different ways throughout the centuries.
Derivative surnames of the Criss surname include Christiansen, Krieck, Crose, Crise, Chryce, Cressman, Crissinger, and Krischmann.
Ultimately, all forms of the Criss surname can be traced back to its Irish and German roots, and are descendant from the Christian personal names Christopher or Christmann.
Famous people with the name Criss
- Troye Sivan: Troye Sivan Mellet, better known as Troye Sivan, is a South African-born Australian singer, songwriter, actor, and YouTuber. He rose to fame in February 2016 with his single "Youth".
- Harry Connick Jr.: Harry Connick Jr. is an American singer, actor, composer, and pianist from New Orleans, Louisiana. He has released over 30 albums and won three Grammy Awards.
- Falconshield: Falconshield is an Italian-American YouTuber and video game music producer. He rose to fame with his game-inspired music videos and has gained over 1.7 million subscribers on the platform.
- Gene Crisman: Gene Crisman is an American former Major League Baseball player. He played for the Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers, Minnesota Twins, and Chicago Cubs.
- Mark Criss: Mark Criss is an American songwriter and recording artist from New York. His work has been featured on Netflix, HBO, and ABC.
- Nomad Cris: Nomad Cris is a British electronic DJ and producer. His most popular track is the “Journey” remix.
- Chris Criss: Chris Criss is an American actor best known for his role as Todd on the series "Out with Dad".
- Chris Brown: Chris Brown is an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor known for his Grammy Award-winning single "Kiss Kiss". He has sold over 140 million records worldwide.
- Chris Crissman: Chris Crissman is an American basketball coach who was the head coach of the St. John's Red Storm from 1993 to 1996.
- Chris Cringle: Chris Cringle, better known as Santa Claus, is a legendary figure said to bring gifts to children at Christmas.