Meaning & History
Norris is an English given name derived from either of two English surnames, Norris 1 (originally a Norman locational name for someone from Norrey in Calvados) or Norris 2 (a nickname meaning "northerner," from Middle English norreis). The name has been used predominantly in the United States since the 19th century.
Notable Bearers
Norris has been borne by several famous individuals across various fields. In sports, notable examples include Norris Cole, an American professional basketball player who won two NBA championships with the Miami Heat; Norris Coleman, a former NBA forward and Israeli Basketball Premier League MVP; and Norris Webb, a Panamanian Olympic basketball player. In politics, Norris Brown served as a U.S. Senator from Nebraska. In entertainment, Norris McWhirter co-compiled The Guinness Book of Records, and singer-songwriter Norro Wilson (born Norris Denton Wilson) was a notable figure in country music.
Despite its surname roots, the given name remains relatively uncommon outside the United States.
- Meaning: "Northerner" or from Norrey
- Origin: English (surname)
- Type: Given name (masculine)
- Usage Regions: United States
Sources: Wikipedia — Norris (given name)