From Wales
- Betrys
Description:
Betrys is a feminine name with Welsh origins, representing a Celtic variant of Beatrice. The traditional name Beatrice comes from Latin 'Beatrix,' meaning 'she who brings happiness' or 'blessed.' This Welsh adaptation maintains the beautiful meaning while incorporating distinctive Celtic phonetics. Betrys has remained quite rare, even within Wales, giving it an air of uniqueness and historical charm. The name carries medieval echoes while still feeling accessible to modern ears. Despite its ancient roots, Betrys has never achieved widespread popularity, making it an excellent choice for parents seeking a name with authentic Welsh heritage and uncommon status. The distinctive spelling offers a fresh alternative to more familiar forms like Beatrice or Beatrix while maintaining the connection to its rich etymological meaning of joy and blessedness.
- Ifan
Description:
Ifan is a masculine Welsh name that serves as a Welsh variation of John, ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious.' Pronounced roughly as 'IV-an,' it has been used in Wales for centuries as part of the rich tradition of Welsh naming customs. Ifan has remained relatively uncommon outside of Wales and Welsh communities, giving it a distinctive cultural identity. The name carries the warmth and familiarity of John while offering a connection to Welsh heritage and language. In modern usage, Ifan might appeal to parents of Welsh descent or those seeking a name with Celtic roots that's both traditional and uncommon in most English-speaking regions.
- Haydn
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"heathen"Description:
Some music-minded parents might consider this especially as a middle name, to honor the great Austrian composer.
- Sioned
Description:
Sioned is a feminine Welsh name, the Welsh form of Janet, which ultimately derives from Jane/Joan (meaning 'God is gracious'). Pronounced roughly as 'SHON-ed' with a soft 'sh' sound, it has been used in Wales for centuries and represents an important element of Welsh naming heritage. The name gained wider recognition through literary works and cultural exchanges but remains primarily associated with Welsh culture. Sioned has experienced consistent usage in Wales, occasionally rising in popularity during periods of heightened Welsh national identity. Outside Wales, it's encountered rarely, making it a distinctive choice that carries cultural significance. Its soft sounds combined with the strength of Welsh heritage give it a character that balances gentleness and resilience.
- Vallis
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"from Wales"Description:
Intriguing way to signal Welsh ancestry; more unusual than Wallace.
- Kimball
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"warrior chief"Description:
Now that Kimberly is no longer one of the top girl names, Kim or long form Kimball feel more gender neutral.
- Aled
Origin:
Welsh geographical nameDescription:
This simple, solid Welsh name enjoyed moderate popularity in England and Wales in the '80s and '90s, after the success of choirboy Aled Jones.
- Peredur
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"hard spears"Description:
This was the name of several figures from Welsh mythology, and was also used by 12th-century chronicler Geoffrey of Monmouth in his Arthurian tales. The character of Percival was probably based on him.
- Iefan
Description:
Iefan appears to be a variant spelling of Ieuan or Ifan, Welsh forms of John, ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning "God is gracious." This uncommon name reflects Welsh naming traditions while maintaining connections to one of history's most enduring names. The distinctive spelling makes it extremely rare outside of Welsh-speaking communities. Despite its unfamiliarity to many, Iefan has authentic cultural roots and a history spanning centuries in Wales. The pronunciation (roughly YEH-van) may present challenges in non-Welsh contexts, but offers a connection to Welsh heritage. For parents seeking a name with Celtic origins that remains genuinely uncommon while still having legitimate historical usage, Iefan represents an authentic option with traditional roots.
- Trystan
Origin:
CelticMeaning:
"noise or sorrowful"Description:
An alternative spelling of Tristan, and also the modern Welsh form of the legendary hero's name.
- 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.
- Angharad
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"much loved"Description:
This name dates back to Arthurian legend, in which Angharad was the lover of Percival, one of the Knights of the Round Table, and was used more recently for the name of the favorite wife of the warlord in Mad Max: Fury Road. It was quite popular in the Middle Ages and is still heard in Wales, but we doubt that even the glamorous Rosie Huntington-Whiteley could propel it to wider popularity.
- Meriadoc
Origin:
BretonMeaning:
"sea brow"Description:
This Tolkien name is a variation on Meriadeg, a Breton name derived from Conan Meriadeg who was the legendary founder of Brittany. In Tolkien's novel, Meriadoc (shortened to the charming "Merry") is one of the hobbits who accompanies Frodo on his quest.
- Heulwen
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"sunshine"Description:
A lesser-known Welsh name with a beautiful sunny meaning.
- Caradog
Description:
Caradog is a masculine name of Welsh origin with deep historical roots, derived from the ancient Celtic name 'Caratacus.' This name belonged to a famous 1st-century British chieftain who led resistance against Roman invasion. The element 'car' in Celtic languages relates to 'love' or 'beloved,' suggesting someone who is dear or cherished. Pronounced roughly as 'ca-RAD-og' with emphasis on the middle syllable, the name has remained in use throughout Welsh history, though rarely found outside Wales. Caradog represents Welsh cultural heritage in its purest form, appealing to parents seeking authentic Celtic names beyond more familiar options. While challenging for non-Welsh speakers, the name carries historical significance and cultural depth that make it attractive to families with Welsh connections or those drawn to names with strong historical narratives and distinctive character.
- Brynna
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"hill"Description:
You say Bryn, he says Bryana -- here's a name you might agree on.
- Math
Description:
Math is a concise, powerful masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Welsh mythology, Math fab Mathonwy was a king and powerful magician, giving the name deep Celtic roots. It can also be seen as a shortened form of Matthew, derived from Hebrew meaning 'gift of God.' In modern contexts, the name evokes associations with mathematics and logical thinking. This short, punchy name offers simplicity and strength with just four letters, making it easy to pronounce across languages. While uncommon as a standalone given name, Math's brevity aligns with contemporary naming trends favoring short, impactful names. For parents interested in Welsh heritage or looking for a unique alternative to Matthew with intellectual connotations, Math provides a distinctive yet accessible option.
- Siarl
Origin:
Welsh, from GermanMeaning:
"free man"Description:
The Welsh form of Charles.
- Mairwen
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"blessed Mary"Description:
A sweet Marian name consisting of Mair, the Welsh form of Mary, and gwen, meaning "blessed, white".
- Ifor
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"archer"Description:
Ifor seems to make more sense in its Anglicized version, Ivor.