Key or hollow
A surname-turned-given name likely derived from the French 'clef' meaning key, or potentially from the English topographic name Chevis, referring to a hollow or valley. It gained modest usage in the United States during the late 20th century, particularly within the African American community.
Less common today
Chavis isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #1,970 in 1991.
US births per 5-year period, 1990βpresent (SSA data).
Former NFL linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens
Subject of a high-profile 2012 civil rights case in Arkansas