Welsh Names

  1. Gwynn
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "fair, blessed"
    • Description:

      The most modern choice in this group, and the most distinctive; the Gwyn form is a common male name in Wales.
  2. Rhydderch
    • Description:

      Rhydderch is a masculine Welsh name with ancient Celtic roots. It derives from the elements 'rhudd' meaning 'red' or 'crimson' and 'derch' meaning 'splendid' or 'magnificent.' Historically, it was the name of several notable Welsh kings and nobles, particularly Rhydderch Hael (the Generous), a 6th-century ruler of Strathclyde. The name carries connotations of nobility, generosity, and leadership in Welsh tradition. While relatively uncommon in modern usage outside of Wales, it represents a strong connection to Welsh heritage and history. The pronunciation can be challenging for non-Welsh speakers, typically approximated as 'hrith-erkh' with a rolled 'r' sound.
  3. Gracelynn
    • Origin:

      Combination of Grace and Lynn
    • Meaning:

      "Grace + lake; pretty"
    • Description:

      With Grace mega popular and Gracie on the rise, this modern compound name provides a trendy alternative. With the vibes of Brooklyn and Evelyn and the contemporary feel of Oaklynn and and Emberlynn, Gracelynn is currently in the US Top 400.
  4. Tarian
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "shield"
    • Description:

      A distinctive name, originally male, that could be an updated tribute to Grandma Marian.
  5. Huw
    • Description:

      Huw is a traditional Welsh masculine name, representing the Welsh form of Hugh. Derived from the Germanic element "hug" meaning "heart," "mind," or "spirit," Huw carries connotations of intelligence and soulfulness. Despite its brevity, the name has a rich history in Wales, where it has been used since medieval times. The distinctive Welsh spelling with the 'w' instead of the more common 'gh' ending reflects Welsh phonetics and gives the name its authentic character. While primarily found in Wales and among Welsh diaspora communities, Huw has gained some recognition beyond these regions due to notable bearers including Welsh actors and musicians. The name combines simplicity with cultural depth, making it appealing to parents seeking a distinctively Celtic name with straightforward pronunciation.

  6. Wendolyn
    • Description:

      Wendolyn is a feminine name that appears to be a variant of Gwendolyn, a name with Welsh origins meaning 'white ring' or 'blessed ring.' By dropping the initial 'G,' Wendolyn creates a slightly more distinctive version while maintaining the melodic quality of the original. Though significantly less common than Gwendolyn, it shares the same medieval charm and literary associations. Wendolyn has a gentle strength in its sound, with the softened beginning giving it a slightly different cadence than its more popular counterpart. The name might appeal to parents seeking something familiar yet uncommon, with connections to Celtic heritage. While rare in contemporary usage, Wendolyn wouldn't seem out of place alongside other traditional names experiencing revival, offering uniqueness without being completely unfamiliar.
  7. Cadogan
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "honor in battle"
    • Description:

      This surname borne by several early Welsh leaders has a lot of energy.
  8. Teilo
    • Origin:

      Welsh, meaning unknown
    • Description:

      Especially if you have Welsh roots, this prominent saint's name could be an interesting and more masculine alternative to Taylor.
  9. Bryn
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "hill"
    • Description:

      The simple and attractive Bryn is well used for boys in Wales, and does have a history as a male name in the US, although both Bryn and Brynn are currently far more popular for girls.
  10. Deryn
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "bird"
    • Description:

      This 1950s Welsh bird name sounds less dated than our fifties Robin.
  11. Keris
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Kerris or Cerys
    • Meaning:

      "love"
    • Description:

      This phonetic version of the Welsh Cerys might be easier for Americans, certainly, to understand, but it does lose some poetry in translation.
  12. Glynis
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "small glen, valley"
    • Description:

      The feminine version of the common Welsh name Glyn became somewhat known in this country via the charming Welsh actress Glynis Johns. Variations include Glenys and Glynys. With other Welsh names--Gwyneth, Bronwyn, Bryn, Griffith--now on the American table, Glynis could make a distinctive tribute to an Uncle Glenn.
  13. Edwyn
    • Description:

      Edwyn is a masculine name of Anglo-Saxon origin, representing a modernized spelling of the Old English name Edwin, which combines 'ead' (wealth, fortune) and 'wine' (friend). This distinguished name carries historical weight, having been borne by a 7th-century King of Northumbria, Saint Edwin. While less common than Edwin, Edwyn offers a slightly more distinctive spelling while maintaining the same traditional roots. The name has experienced modest usage throughout English-speaking countries but has never been overwhelmingly popular. Edwyn projects reliability and quiet strength, with a touch of literary and historical flair. The 'wy' spelling variation gives it a somewhat Welsh flavor, though its origins are primarily Anglo-Saxon. Parents choosing Edwyn often appreciate its connection to history while enjoying its slight uniqueness compared to more common Ed- names.

  14. Bleddyn
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "wolf's cub"
    • Description:

      Unusual two-syllable choice with a real pronunciation challenge.
  15. Bethan
    • Origin:

      Welsh diminutive of Elizabeth, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"
    • Description:

      Very popular in Wales, this perfectly nice name's only problem is its similarity to the dated Beth Ann. But if you're looking to honor an ancestral Elizabeth with a distinctive rare choice, Bethan might be on your short list.
  16. Lowri
    • Origin:

      Welsh, from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "laurel"
    • Description:

      This unusual and appealing form of Laura is popular in sections of Wales.
  17. Betsan
    • Origin:

      Welsh pet form of Elizabeth
    • Description:

      Betsan is little-known outside of the U.K. but it could provide an intriguing alternative to Liz, Beth, Betsy, Betty, and Libby.
  18. Aeron
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "berry"
    • Description:

      Aeron was possibly a minor Celtic god of war, and is definitely a river in modern-day Wales.
  19. Romney
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "winding river"
    • Description:

      With the fashion for all names Rom, this strong surname with ties to Old Master painter George has new possibilities. Obviously, it now has more political associations than artistic.
  20. Sieffre
    • Origin:

      Welsh from French
    • Meaning:

      "pledge of peace"
    • Description:

      The Welsh form of Geoffrey.