Morris is an English given name derived from the Old French word 'Moreis', which was used as a nickname for someone who lived by a moor or marsh, or had a fondness for morels, a type of wild mushroom. The name became popular in England during the Middle Ages and has been used consistently since then. It was frequently used among English nobility, with notable bearers including Morris of Angoulême, a French nobleman who fought alongside Richard I of England during the Third Crusade. In the United States, Morris gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly among Jewish immigrants from Germany and Eastern Europe who settled in large numbers in cities like New York and Chicago. Today, Morris is still considered a traditional yet timeless name, often associated with individuals who embody wisdom and experience due to its historical usage and enduring popularity.
The name Morris experienced fluctuating popularity throughout the early to mid-20th century, with peaks occurring in the late teens and early twenties, as well as a resurgence in the late forties and fifties. However, after the sixties, its usage decreased significantly, with only occasional years seeing more than five births.