Welles

Welles is a distinguished surname-turned-first-name with English origins, meaning 'spring' or 'stream.' This sophisticated name carries literary and artistic associations, most notably through Orson Welles, the legendary filmmaker and actor. As a given name, Welles began gaining modest attention in the early 2000s, part of the trend toward using traditional surnames as distinctive first names. It appeals to parents seeking a name with both refinement and substance, offering a less common alternative to similar-sounding choices like Wells or William. Though still relatively uncommon, Welles has been steadily increasing in usage, particularly among families drawn to its cultured sound, literary connections, and subtle nature reference.

Welles is also given to girls.

Pronounced WELZ.

As of October 2026, Welles ranked #17373 in US births in 2020 SSA.