Rees
About Rees
Rees is a Welsh masculine name derived from the Welsh word 'rhys,' meaning 'enthusiasm' or 'ardor.' This concise, strong name has deep Celtic roots and has been borne by several Welsh princes and nobility throughout history. While traditionally a surname, Rees has gained popularity as a first name in Wales and beyond. The single-syllable structure gives it a modern, streamlined quality despite its ancient origins. Rees offers a distinctive alternative to the more common spelling Rhys, while maintaining the same powerful meaning and Welsh heritage. Its simplicity, meaningful etymology, and cultural significance make it appealing to parents seeking a name with substance and brevity.
Pronounced REEZ.
As of October 2026, Rees ranked #6368 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #2140 in 1939.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank | Births | Per million |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | #4,501 | 22 | 11.5 |
| 2015 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2016 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2017 | #4,891 | 20 | 10.8 |
| 2018 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2019 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2020 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2021 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2024 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | — | 0 | 0 |
Similar names
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Rees on lists
Famous Reess
- Martin Rees
British cosmologist and astrophysicist
- Charles Thomson Rees Wilson
winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics