Welsh Names
- Gwenore
Origin:
Variation of GuinevereMeaning:
"white shadow, white wave"Description:
An offbeat way to get to Gwen.
- Glenda
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"fair and good"Description:
There aren't many Glendas under forty.
- Sieffre
Origin:
Welsh from FrenchMeaning:
"pledge of peace"Description:
The Welsh form of Geoffrey.
- Glynis
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"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.
- Jevon
Origin:
Welsh, variation of EvanMeaning:
"gift of God"Description:
Yet another offshoot of the original John, also sometimes used as Jevan or Yevan.
- Betsan
Origin:
Welsh pet form of ElizabethDescription:
Betsan is little-known outside of the U.K. but it could provide an intriguing alternative to Liz, Beth, Betsy, Betty, and Libby.
- Siôn
Origin:
Welsh variation of JohnDescription:
A more authentic -- and difficult -- version of Sean.
- Dyfan
Description:
Dyfan is a masculine Welsh name with ancient Celtic origins, pronounced roughly as 'DUV-an.' The name derives from the Welsh elements 'du' meaning 'black' or 'dark' and 'ban' meaning 'peak' or 'prominence.' In Welsh history and legend, Saint Dyfan (also spelled Deruvian) was reportedly one of the first Christian missionaries to Britain in the 2nd century. The name carries connotations of spiritual devotion, natural strength, and cultural heritage. While common in Wales and among Welsh families abroad, Dyfan remains relatively rare in the broader English-speaking world, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with authentic Celtic roots and distinctive character.
- Brynna
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"hill"Description:
You say Bryn, he says Bryana -- here's a name you might agree on.
- Meurig
Origin:
Welsh, from LatinMeaning:
"dark-skinned"Description:
The Welsh form of Maurice.
- Heulfryn
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"Sunny hill"Description:
This Welsh name presents some pronunciation/spelling challenges but has a lovely sound and meaning. The name has been used in the South Korean multiplayer game Mabinogi for one of the human healer characters.
- Conwenna
Origin:
Cornish, Welsh or BretonDescription:
Made familiar by poet William Blake. According to Blake, after her death, Conwenna "shines ... over the north with pearly beams gorgeous and terrible". Make of that what you will.
- Dilwyn
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"fair, white, blessed"Description:
Welsh heritage choice that's rare today even in its native land.
- 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.
- Dwyn
Origin:
Diminutive of DwynwenMeaning:
"wave"Description:
Short, but still kind of a mouthful.
- Yale
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"fertile upland"Description:
An appellation that couldn't be more Ivy League or sound less Welsh. The name of the University is taken from the surname of college benefactor Elihu Yale. In the movie Manhattan, Yale Pollack is the name of Woody Allen's best friend. The Hebrew Yael is not related.
- Llio
Origin:
Diminutive of Gwenllian, WelshMeaning:
"white, flaxen"Description:
This extremely unusual homonym of Leo might prove both confusing and intriguing. The Welsh double L fascinates English speakers.
- Gower
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"pure"Description:
This Old Welsh name associated with blacksmiths has never caught on, but it has the right two-syllable occupational feel to qualify for revival. Gower Champion was a successful midcentury dancer, choreographer and director on the Broadway stage, in films and on TV.
- Mair
Origin:
Welsh form of MaryDescription:
One of the many international versions of Mary that could make an unusual alternative. The similar sound to Maya/Maia could be a plus or a minus.
- Olwyn
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"white footprint"Description:
Olwyn is a popular Welsh name that might be an alternative to the more familiar Bronwen or Rhonwen -- though in Wales the female form is usually spelled -wen and the male one -wyn.