Wooded grove or church
Kellis is a rare surname-turned-given name with roots in the British Isles. It is often considered a variant of Kelly or Kells, potentially referring to a dweller near a church or a wooded area. In some contexts, it is also linked to the Greek name Achilles, though its use in English-speaking countries is primarily as a rhythmic, modern invention.
Fewer than 5 boys were named Kellis in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).