Meaning & History
Kris is a short form of Danish names such as Kristian and Kristoffer, as well as other names beginning with the element Kris (such as Kristine). It is used as a unisex given name in Danish and English.
Etymology and History
The name ultimately derives from the Latin Christianus, meaning "a Christian," via the Greek Christos (see Christian). The use of Kris as a standalone given name emerged from the tradition of forming diminutives or nicknames for longer names beginning with Kr-. In Denmark, where long names like Kristian and Kristoffer are common, Kris gained popularity as a simple, modern alternative. In English-speaking countries, Kris has been used as a given name since the 20th century, inspired by names like Christopher, Christian, and Christine.
Notable Bearers
Notable individuals named Kris include American acting teacher Kris Carr (born 1971), American singer-songwriter Kris Kristofferson (born 1936), Belgian-Mexican actress and model Kristofferson, and Belgian footballer Kristofferson. However, the name Kris is also a familiar nickname for famous figures such as Kris Jenner (born 1955), who is American television personality and mother of the Kardashian family.
Popularity
Kris is most commonly used for boys, but it is also given to girls, especially as a shortened form of Kristina or Christine. It reached peak popularity in the United States in the 1970s, ranking among the top 500 for boys, though it has since declined. In Denmark, it has been a popular boys' name since the mid-20th century.
- Meaning: A Christian (derived from Kristian/Christian); a short form of Kristian or other Kris- names
- Origin: Danish, via Latin and Greek
- Type: Diminutive/nickname used as a given name
- Usage Regions: Denmark, English-speaking countries