Show ContentsGriss History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

The surname Griss is a name of ancient French origin. It was a Breton name given to a person with gray hair. The name Griss is derived from the Old French word "gris," which means "gray," and was often given to someone with gray hair.

Early Origins of the Griss family

The surname Griss was first found in Brittany where this distinguished family held a family seat at Motte, and were prominent members of the aristocracy.

Early History of the Griss family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Griss research. Another 83 words (6 lines of text) covering the year 1789 is included under the topic Early Griss History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Griss Spelling Variations

French surnames were subject to numerous spelling alterations depending on the region and time it was used. The early development of the French language relied heavily on borrowing elements and grammar from other languages. For example, Old French was infused with Germanic words and sounds when barbarian tribes invaded and settled in France after the fall of the Roman Empire. Middle French also borrowed heavily from the Italian language during the Renaissance. As a result of these linguistic and cultural influences, the name Griss is distinguished by a number of regional variations. The many spelling variations of the name include Gris, Griss, Grix, LeGris, Legris, Legriss and many more.

Early Notables of the Griss family

More information is included under the topic Early Griss Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.


Australia Griss migration to Australia +

Emigration to Australia followed the First Fleets of convicts, tradespeople and early settlers. Early immigrants include:

Griss Settlers in Australia in the 19th Century
  • Mr. Thomas Griss, British Convict who was convicted in Ipswich, Suffolk, England for 10 years, transported aboard the "Corona" on 13th October 1866, arriving in Western Australia, Australia 1


  1. Convict Records Voyages to Australia (Retrieved 24th March 2021). Retrieved from https://convictrecords.com.au/ships/corona


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