Modern Welsh Names
By elsil
Updated Thu May 25 2023
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Mixture of modern Welsh names for girls and boys. Enwau modern Cymraeg ar gyfer genod a bechgyn.
- Rhys
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"ardor"Description:
Rugged but gentle, Rhys is the traditional Welsh spelling of this name, which can also be anglicized as Reese or Reece. Up until 2010, Reese was the preferred spelling in the US, perhaps because parents were concerned about mispronunciation. However, Rhys has since taken over for boys and is now used twice as often as Reese.
- Manon
Origin:
French, diminutive of MarieMeaning:
"bitter"Description:
Manon is an endearing French pet name for Marie or Marianne; it has the international yet straightforward feel that makes it a viable import. Manon of the Spring was a gorgeous French film, Manon Lescaut a 1731 novel by Abbe Prevost, set in France and Louisiana, that was controversial in its day. It formed the basis of operas by Puccini and Massenet, and several films and TV series.
- Greta
Origin:
German, diminutive of MargaretheMeaning:
"pearl"Description:
Greta is an Old World name long tied to the iconic Garbo, but now synonymous with environmental activism.
- Macsen
Origin:
Welsh variation of Maximus, LatinMeaning:
"greatest"Description:
Macsen may sound like a modern invention, cousin to Jackson and Maxon, but it's a longtime Welsh variation of Maximus with evocative roots in legend. Macsen Wledig is another name for the Roman emperor Magnus Maximus, was played an important role in Welsh history and was further immortalized in a poem celebrating his dream about his lover Elen. Macsen also appears in Arthurian legend.
- Nia
Origin:
Swahili; Welsh form of the Irish NiamhMeaning:
"resolve; brilliance"Description:
Short but energetic and substantial, Nia has special meaning for African-American parents, as it's one of the days of Kwanza. Nia also benefits by its similarity to (yet differentness from) the megapopular Mia.
- Mona
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"noble good"Description:
Mona had more than a moment in the sun, peaking in 1950 at Number 230 but falling off the Top 1000 completely in the late 1980s. Its similarity to the word "moaner" undercuts the appeal of its simplicity. In one recent year, fewer than 100 baby girls received the name, and we don't see it reviving any time soon.
- Mabli
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"lovable"Description:
Mabli is the sweet Welsh form of Mabel; like its English cousin, it’s starting to make a modest comeback in Wales as part of the trend for vintage baby names from a century ago.
- Gwilym
Origin:
Welsh variation of WilliamMeaning:
"resolute protection"Description:
The Welsh version of William is almost unheard-of across, but it's fairly straightforward and could make a good heritage choice or alternative honor name.
- Gethin
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"dark, swarthy complexion"Description:
A rugged Welsh name, reminiscent of Griffin, Gerard, and Gideon, Gethin is a familiar choice in the UK when it ranks in the Top 1000. Notable bearers include Game of Thrones actor Gethin Anthony, rugby player Gethin Jenkins, and TV presenter, Gethin Jones.
- Non
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"nun"Description:
The legendary St. Non was the mother of St. David, the patron saint of Wales. David was raised in a convent by his mother and went on to become a great teacher and bishop. Non is also known as Nonna and Nonita, and is associated with Cornwall and Brittany along with Wales. While the name Non is well-used in Wales, it is largely unknown in the US and maybe be heard as the negative word "none" or prefix "non".
- Gwenllian
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"white, flaxen"Description:
Not a blend of Gwendolyn and Lillian! Gwenllian was a medieval Welsh princess noted for her bravery and beauty. Sometimes referred to as the Welsh Bouddica, Gwenllian resisted invasion by English and Norman forces and is a national heroine of Wales. It was given to nearly 30 girls in the UK in 2023, making it the second most popular Gwen- name in the UK and a Top 100 choice in Wales.
- 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.
- Xavia
Origin:
Basque or ArabicMeaning:
"new house or bright"Description:
Modern feminine form of Xavier
- Cadi
Origin:
Welsh diminutive of Catrin / CatherineDescription:
One of the cute diminutives that's in vogue in Wales... or could be an alternative spelling of Kaydie.
- Cathi
Description:
Cathi is a feminine name primarily serving as a diminutive or variant spelling of Catherine or Cathy. Derived ultimately from the Greek name Aikaterine or Hekaterine, its meaning is debated but possibly relates to the Greek word "katharos" meaning "pure." This shortened form emerged as a friendly nickname before sometimes becoming used as an independent given name. The distinctive spelling with an 'i' ending gained some popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s-1970s in America, offering a slightly unique twist on the more common Cathy. The name conveys a casual, approachable quality while maintaining connections to the classical Catherine. Its usage has declined in recent decades as naming trends have shifted.
- Calan
Description:
Calan as a feminine name is quite uncommon, as it is more frequently used as a masculine name with Welsh and Celtic origins. As a girl's name, Calan represents a modern, gender-neutral choice. The name may derive from the Welsh word 'calan,' meaning 'the first day of the month' or relating to beginnings and calendars. It could also be linked to the Irish name Callan, meaning 'powerful in battle.' With its crisp, concise sound and contemporary feel, Calan offers a strong yet accessible option for parents seeking a name that breaks traditional gender associations. The name's brevity and strong consonants give it a bold, distinctive quality that stands out while remaining easy to pronounce and spell.
- Aur
- Braint
- Brengain
- Briallt