Finnis is a name of Irish origin that is derived from the ancient Gaelic personal name "Fionn", which means "fair-haired" or "white". The name Fionn was borne by many legendary figures in Irish mythology, including the hero Fionn mac Cumhaill (also known as Finn MacCool), who was a leader of the Fianna, an elite group of warriors and hunters. The name Finnis is believed to be a variant spelling of Fionn that was used more frequently during the Middle Ages.
The popularity of the name Finnis has varied over time and across different regions. In Ireland, it has been a relatively uncommon name throughout history, but it has gained some popularity in recent years due to its unique sound and Irish origins. Outside of Ireland, the name Finnis is also found in countries such as England, Scotland, and Wales, where it may have been introduced by Irish immigrants or through cultural exchange.
There are no major historical figures named Finnis, although there are many notable individuals named Fionn throughout history. Some examples include Fionn mac Cumhaill, the legendary Irish hero mentioned earlier, and Fionnbarra Ó Domhnaill, a 17th-century Irish chieftain who was known for his resistance against English rule.
In literature, the name Finnis appears in several works of fiction, often as a minor character. For example, it is the name of one of the main characters in "The Luminaries", a novel by Eleanor Catton that won the Man Booker Prize in 2013.
Overall, the name Finnis is an interesting and unique choice for parents looking for a distinctive Irish name with a strong historical background. Its meaning and origins add to its appeal, making it a popular option among those who appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Ireland.
The given statistics show the annual occurrences of the name Finnis in the United States from 1913 to 1938. During this period, there were a total of 61 babies named Finnis born across the country. The years with the highest number of births with this name were 1927 and 1932, each having 8 occurrences. Interestingly, the majority of the years listed had either 5 or 6 births, indicating that while Finnis was not a very common name during this time period, it was still given to some children each year.