Travis
/ˈtrævɪs/
noun
Origin
Old French
traverser — to cross
Overview
Meaning Now
- A surname of French origin that became a popular given name, particularly in English-speaking countries.
Literal older meaning
toll-collector or traverser
Language path
Old French → Anglo-Norman → English
Earliest form
Travers
Earliest period
12th century
Journey
The name originated as an occupational surname for someone who lived near a bridge or crossroads, or who collected tolls at such a location. It was brought to Britain by the Normans in the 11th century and evolved from the surname 'Travers'.
Evolution
- Latin (Classical)
transversare
“to turn across”
- Old French
travers
“a crossing or toll”
Occupational term for a toll collector at a bridge or road crossing.
- Middle English
Travers
“surname”
Introduced to England following the Norman Conquest.
- Modern English
Travis
“given name”
Transitioned from a surname to a common given name in the 20th century.
Connections
Word parts
trans-
prefix
across
versare
root
to turn
Related across languages
French
travers
across or breadth
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Related to Travis
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.