Category Archives: name

Aled


Name Aled

Aled is a Welsh boy’s name.

Meaning of the Name Aled

The name Aled originates from the name of a river in Denbighshire.

Popularity of the Name

Aled was not in the top 100 baby boys names in Wales during in 2011 or in 2010 according the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Although Aled is not currently in the top 100 baby names you’ll often find someone called Aled in Wales.

Famous People Called Aled

Here is a list of a few famous people called the name Aled:

  • Aled Jones – the singer and presenter who shot into the lime light when he was just a school boy with the music to ‘The Snowman’ animation.
  • Aled Brew – is a Welsh rugby international player.
  • Tudur Aled – a famous Welsh medieval poet who used the cynghanedd style of poetry.
  • Aled Pugh – is a Welsh actor who starred in the television programmes Stella and My Family.

Resources

See our comprehensive list of Welsh Boys Names. Ideal if you are looking for a name for your baby.

Name Jac

The Boy’s Name Jac

Meaning of the Name

Jac is the Welsh spelling for the boy’s name Jack. Jac can also be a shortened version of the female name Jacqueline.

Popularity of Jac

Jac is the 40th most popular baby name in Wales in 2011 according to the office of National Statistics. Making it the 8th most popular Welsh boy’s name. The English spelling of the name was the 3rd most popular name in England and Wales in the same survey.

Pronunciation of Jac

Exactly the same as Jack.

Famous People Called Jac

Unfortunately, we can find any famous people with the boy’s name Jac. We’re sure this will change over the next few years with the popularity of the name. Let us know if you know of any famous people with the name Jac. Post your comments below.

Resources

If you are considering Jac as a name for your baby see our comprehensive list of Welsh boy’s names.

Gethin

Gethin Name

Gethin is a popular Welsh boy’s name. You can find people called Gethin from all over the world.

Meaning

It is though that Gethin originates from the word ‘cethin’ meaning ‘swarthy’.

Popularity of Gethin

Gethin is the 45th most popular baby’s name in Wales in 2011 according to the Office of National Statistics and Gethin is the 9th most popular Welsh boy’s name.

Famous People Called Gethin

  • Gethin Jenkins – is a Welsh and British Lions rugby player.
  • Gethin Jones – is a Welsh television presenter, who was famous for hosting the children’s show Blue Peter.
  • Rhys Gethin – was a Welsh rebel and soldier who fought with Owain Glyd^wr.

Resources

If you are looking for a name for your baby see our Welsh names for boys page and Tips Choosing a Welsh Name.

Name Tomos

Tomos, a charming and distinctive name, offers a Welsh twist on the classic name Thomas. This article delves into the meaning, history, pronunciation, popularity, and notable figures associated with this appealing name.

Tomos is a popular name with Welsh origins. It is particularly popular with expecting mums and dads looking for a name for their baby.

Meaning of Tomos

Tomos is the Welsh form of the name Thomas. The name Thomas has Aramaic origins, derived from the word toma, meaning “twin.” This simple yet evocative meaning has contributed to its enduring popularity across various cultures and languages.

Tomas meaning twins
Tomas meaning twins

Popularity of Tomos

While Tomos is a distinctly Welsh name, its usage is primarily concentrated within Wales, though it may be recognised in other parts of the UK due to cultural exchange.

According to the latest statistics on baby names in Wales, Tomos is the 447th most popular baby boys name in Wales and England in 2023. It was the 41st most popular baby name overall in Wales in 2011.

How to Pronounce Tomos

The pronunciation of Tomos is relatively straightforward for English speakers. It is generally pronounced as “TOM-oss,” with the emphasis on the first syllable. The “o” sounds are similar to the “o” in “hot” or “lot.”

Famous People with the Name

While not as widely recognised as some other names, Tomos has been borne by notable individuals within Wales:

  • Tomos Watkin: This refers to the Tomos Watkins Brewery, a Welsh brewery known for producing traditional Welsh ales. While not a person, the brewery’s name has contributed to the recognition of “Tomos” within Wales.
  • Tomos Lewis: A Welsh singer-songwriter. Such individuals contribute to the name’s contemporary presence within Welsh culture.

Summary

Tomos offers a charming and culturally rich alternative to the more common Thomas. Its Welsh origins, distinct pronunciation, and association with local figures give it a unique appeal within Wales. For parents seeking a name that celebrates Welsh heritage and offers a familiar yet distinctive sound, Tomos is a worthy choice. It is a name that connects to tradition while maintaining a fresh and contemporary feel.

Resources

Looking for other names? See our comprehensive list of other Welsh boy’s names.

Osian

The Name Osian

Osian is one of the most popular traditional Welsh boy’s names.

Osian is a popular Welsh name for boys, meaning “stag” or “fawn”. It is pronounced “oh-see-an”. The name is thought to have originated from the Old Welsh name Oissin (or derived from the Irish name Oisín), which was also the name of a famous bard in Irish mythology.

Osian means 'stag' or 'fawn'
Osian means ‘stag’ or ‘fawn’

Osian is a name with a rich history in Wales. It was the name of several early Welsh saints, including Saint Osian of Llantwit Major and Saint Osian of Llansanffraid Glan Conwy. The name was also popular among Welsh royalty, with several Welsh princes and kings bearing the name.

Meaning of the Name Osian

Osian was derived from a poet by the Irish legend Oisin. Oisín is a legendary poet and warrior in Irish mythology, son of the warrior Fionn mac Cumhaill and the princess Sadhbh.

The popularity of the Name

In recent years, the name Osian has seen a resurgence in popularity in Wales. It is now one of the most popular Welsh names for boys and is often ranked in the top 50 most popular names in Wales.

Osian was the 16th most popular baby name in Wales in 2021 and the 1st most popular traditional Welsh name according to the latest Office of National Statistics statistics.

How to Pronounce Osian?

Osian is pronounced as ‘Osh-an’ in English

Variations

  • There are a few variations of the name Osian, including Osean, Osiana, and Oisin.

Famous People

Osian Roberts - The Welsh footballer and coach
Osian Roberts – The Welsh footballer and coach

Here is a list of a few famous people with the name Osian:

  • Osian Roberts – a Welsh-speaking footballer and assistant coach of the national side born in Anglesey in North Wales.
  • Osian Ellis – a famous Welsh harpist
  • Osian Williams – a Welsh musician who played in the band Candelas, Alys Williams, and Palenco.

Resources

If you are looking for other Welsh boys’ names then see our comprehensive list.

If you are expecting a baby, download our ultimate baby checklist to prepare when your baby arrives.

Morgan

The Boy’s Name Morgan

The boy’s name Morgan is a popular name in Wales and also across the the globe. In Wales, it is common to hear Morgan both as a first name and also as a surname.

The name Morgan has a close association with the sea
The name Morgan has a close association with the sea

The name Morgan is also found in the Welsh place, Morgannwg (the county of Glamorgan in English).

Origin and Meaning of the Name Morgan

The name Morgan is generally interpreted to mean “sea-born,” “sea-circle,” or “sea-defender.” These meanings reflect Wales’ strong connection to the sea and maritime traditions.

Morgan is a traditional Welsh name with ancient Celtic roots. It’s derived from the Old Welsh elements “mor” meaning “sea” and “cant” meaning “circle” or “complete,” though some sources suggest it may also be related to “mor” (sea) and “gen” (born).

Another meaning of the name Morgan is broken down into two words, M^or (which means sea in Welsh) and Mawr (which means big (or bright) in Welsh).

Popularity

Morgan has enjoyed widespread popularity both as a given name and surname, not only in Wales but throughout the English-speaking world. It’s notable for its use as both a male and female name, though traditionally it was more common for boys in Wales. In recent decades, it has become increasingly popular as a girl’s name in some countries, particularly the United States.

In 2021, Morgan was the 88th most popular boys name in Wales according to the ONS.

Famous People with the Name Morgan

Here are a few examples of famous people who have the name Morgan:

  1. Morgan le Fay: A powerful enchantress in Arthurian legend, often portrayed as King Arthur’s half-sister.
  2. Captain Henry Morgan (1635-1688): A Welsh privateer who later became the Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica. Captain Morgan has a popular Rum named after him.
  3. Rhodri Morgan – Was the 1st Minister in the National Assembly of Wales.
  4. Morgan Freeman (b. 1937): An acclaimed American actor known for his distinctive voice and numerous film roles.
  5. Morgan Tsvangirai (1952-2018): A Zimbabwean politician who served as Prime Minister of Zimbabwe.
  6. Morgan Lily (b. 1999): An American actress known for her roles in various films and TV series.

If you are interested in more Welsh names or are looking for a name for your baby you will find a lot of great information on our website.

Rhys

The Boy’s Name Rhys

Rhys is a boy’s name that originates from Wales. Rhys is a popular first name and it can also be found as a surname. As a surname, it is more common to hear the anglicised versions of the name as in Rees, Reese, or even Rice. It has been reported that Rhys means enthusiasm.

Meaning and Origin of the Name

Rhys is a name undeniably Welsh in origin. While the exact etymology remains debated, it’s most commonly linked to the Proto-Celtic word *rēgs-, meaning “ruler” or “chieftain.” This connection imbues Rhys with a sense of leadership and authority.

Rhys is a name that is associated with leaders
Rhys is a name that is associated with leaders

Popularity of Rhys

Rhys remains a popular choice for boys in Wales today. It consistently ranks among the top 100 Welsh names, showcasing its enduring appeal.

According to the Office of National Statistics in 2021, Rhys was the 96th most popular baby boy’s name in Wales.

Famous People with the Name Rhys

Rhys is a name that has strong historical routes in Wales. Rhys ap Griffydd was a man who ruled most of South Wales in the 12th century. His grandfather Rhys ap Tedwr was also a powerful man, the king of Deheubarth in the 11th century. Rhys ap Thomas (1447-1525) was a key figure in the Wars of the Roses and a patron of Welsh literature.

From the list below you can see that Rhys is a popular name in the celebrity world:

  • Rhys Ifans – A Welsh actor and musician. Played in the band Super Fury Animals and starred in hit films like Notting Hill and Harry Potter.
  • Griff Rhys Jones – A comedian and actor famous for his work with Mel Smith.
  • Rhys Darby – A comedian from New Zealand
  • Rhys Priestland – A Welsh international rugby player

Why Choose the Name?

For parents seeking a name that reflects both strength and enthusiasm, Rhys offers a compelling option. Whether emphasizing its historical connection to leadership or its alternative meaning of enthusiasm, Rhys resonates with positive connotations.

Useful Resources

Discover the beauty of other Welsh Boy’s names. Ideal if you are looking for a name for your baby boy.

Welsh Name Owain

The Prince of Wales was Owain Gylndŵr

Meaning and Origin

Owain is a traditional Welsh name with deep roots in Celtic history. It is derived from the Old Welsh name “Eugein” or “Ougein,” which itself comes from the Latin name “Eugenius,” meaning “well-born” or “noble.”

The name Owain is generally interpreted to mean “youth” or “young warrior.” Some sources also associate it with the concept of nobility, likely due to its connection to the Latin “Eugenius.”

Popularity

Owain has been a constantly popular name in Wales over the centuries and it can be found in our Top 10 Welsh Boy’s Names. Owen is a variant of the name Owain.

Owain has maintained steady popularity in Wales and other parts of the United Kingdom. While not as common outside these regions, it has seen occasional use in other English-speaking countries. In recent years, there has been a trend towards using traditional Celtic names, which may contribute to a modest increase in its usage.

In 2021, Owain was not in the top 100 baby boys names in Wales.

Famous People called Owain

The most famous person with the name Owain was Owain Glyndŵr. He was a Welsh leader and battled against the English on a number of occasions. He was also the last Welshman to hold the title of the ‘Prince of Wales’. He even featured in Shakespeare’s Henry IV play as Owen Glendower.

Famous People with the Name:

  1. Owain Glyndŵr (c. 1359 – c. 1415): A Welsh ruler who led a lengthy uprising against English rule in Wales.
  2. Owain Yeoman (b. 1978): A Welsh actor known for his roles in TV series such as “The Mentalist” and “Turn: Washington’s Spies.”
  3. Owain Arthur (b. 1983): A Welsh stage and screen actor who has appeared in various theater productions and TV shows.
  4. Owain Doull (b. 1993): A Welsh professional cyclist and Olympic gold medalist.

Summary

The name Owain carries a rich historical and cultural significance, particularly in Welsh heritage. Its association with youth, nobility, and warrior spirit continues to make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with strong Celtic roots.

If you are considering Owain as a baby’s name then see our list of Welsh boys names for other boys’ names and we also have some tools to help you choose a baby’s name.

Welsh Baby Boy Names

Welsh Baby Boy Names

A list of Welsh Baby Boy Names
Helping you find a Welsh name for your baby boy

We created a tool to help you choose a Welsh baby boy names, this is ideal for people who know that they want a Welsh name for their baby but need some inspiration.

The tool is simple to use all you have to do is to  press the ‘Generate Baby Names’ button and we’ll randomly generate a Welsh baby boy names for you. You can press the button as many times as you like; keep on pressing it until you it produces a baby’s name that you love.

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Try our Welsh boy names generator to find different combinations of names to see what combination of names you like the best.

 Find Yourself a Welsh Baby’s Names

 

If you want to see the meanings of these names visit our Welsh boys names page or if you want to try different names with your surname see our Welsh names for boys page its great for shortlisting names you like.

If you don’t know the sex of the baby, Welsh baby girls names can be found on our sister website.

Boys Name Dylan

Dylan, a name resonating with the power and mystery of the ocean, carries a rich Welsh heritage and a global appeal. It’s a name that evokes images of crashing waves, boundless energy, and a deep connection to the natural world.

Meaning and Origin of the Name Dylan

Dylan is a true Welsh name, derived from the words “dy” meaning “great” and “llanw” meaning “tide” or “flow.” This combination translates beautifully to “son of the sea” or “born from the ocean.” The name also finds mention in Welsh mythology, with Dylan Eil Don appearing as a figure associated with the sea.

Dylan has a strong link to the ocean and medieval Welsh tales
Dylan has a strong link to the ocean and medieval Welsh tales

History of the Name

Beyond its literal translation, Dylan holds a significant place in Welsh mythology. In the Mabinogion, a collection of medieval Welsh tales, Dylan Eil Don (“Dylan Son of Don”) is a prominent figure. He is described as a sea god or a being intrinsically linked to the ocean. In the Fourth Branch of the Mabinogi, Math fab Mathonwy, Dylan is born to Arianrhod, and upon his birth, he immediately plunges into the sea and takes on its nature. It is said that “when a wave came to land, it was as great as if the whole sea came.” This mythological association imbues the name with a sense of ancient power and otherworldly connection.

Popularity

Dylan has enjoyed immense popularity not just in Wales but across the globe. The name’s rise can be partly attributed to the renowned Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, whose works inspire readers worldwide. While it remains a consistently popular choice in its native land, it has also gained widespread recognition in other parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries.

  • Wales: Dylan consistently ranks among the most popular boys’ names in Wales, reflecting its strong cultural significance.
  • United Kingdom: According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), in 2023, Dylan ranked 27th in popularity for boys’ names in Wales and 68th in England. This demonstrates its continued popularity across the UK, though slightly less prevalent in England.
  • Global Popularity: The name’s international appeal can be attributed in part to the influence of prominent figures like Dylan Thomas and Bob Dylan.

Famous People with the Name

A Statue of Dylan Thomas in Swansea
A Statue of Dylan Thomas in Swansea

Dylan Thomas is a celebrated Welsh poet and writer is perhaps the most famous bearer of the name. His powerful and evocative works, including “Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night” and “Under Milk Wood,” have cemented his place in literary history and helped popularize the name globally. A statue commemorating him stands in Swansea, Wales.

Bob Dylan, the American singer and songwriter is almost certainly the most well-known person with the surname Dylan. He has won multiple awards for his music including 11 Grammy awards and 1 Golden Globe Award to name a few.

Several prominent figures have brought fame to the name Dylan:

  • Dylan Thomas (1914-1953): A celebrated Welsh poet, best known for his evocative works like “Do not go gentle into that Good Night.”
  • Bob Dylan (born 1941): An American singer-songwriter considered a legend for his influential music and poetic lyrics. Although not of Welsh descent, he adopted the name Dylan as a stage name.
  • Dylan O’Brien (born 1991): This American actor is known for his roles in popular films and television series, such as “Teen Wolf” and the “Maze Runner” franchise, contributing to the name’s popularity among younger generations.

Summary

The name Dylan possesses a unique blend of mythological depth, cultural significance, and evocative imagery. Its connection to the sea, combined with its association with influential figures in literature and music, makes it a compelling choice for parents seeking a name that embodies strength, creativity, and a connection to nature. It is a name that continues to resonate across cultures and generations, carrying with it the echoes of ancient myths and the power of the ever-flowing tide.

We hope you found our information on the boy’s name Dylan useful. Information about Welsh boys’ names can be found on our website.

Useful Resources

Discover the meaning and origin of other popular Welsh boys’ names on this website