Ieuan is a popular male Welsh name. This name has remained a popular name over the decades in Wales.

Meaning and Origin of the Name Ieuan

Ieuan is the Welsh variant of the biblical name John, ultimately derived from the Hebrew name “Yochanan” meaning “God is gracious.” This spiritual meaning adds a layer of depth to the name’s character. The name originates from the Latin name Johannes.

The popularity of the name Ieuan

Ieuan’s popularity in Wales can be traced back centuries. It’s a direct translation of John, a name that has held widespread use throughout Europe for centuries.

Ieuan is a popular Welsh name however in 2021 Ieuan was not in the top 100 baby boys’ names in Wales. However, in 2013, Ieuan was the 90th most popular name in Wales and 596th in England and Wales combined.

Ieuan pronunciation

The name Ieuan looks like a difficult name to pronounce if you are not a Welsh speaker. It’s not too hard if you give it a try it’s literally YIGH-un.

Famous People

The name boasts a rich literary heritage in Wales. Several notable Welsh poets and figures bore the name Ieuan, including:

• Ieuan ap Hywel Swrdwal, a 15th-century poet considered the first Welshman to write in English.
• Ieuan Gethin, a 15th-century poet from Glamorgan.
• Ieuan ap Iago (bardic name Evan James), the 19th-century poet who wrote the lyrics for the Welsh national anthem.

A more recent list of famous people with the 1^st name called Ieuan include:

• Ieuan Evans – was a Welsh and British Lions rugby player. He played on the wing for Llanelli and captained Wales.
• Ieuan Thomas –was a Welsh athlete who was the British, European and Commonwealth 400m hurdling champion.
• Ieuan Wyn Jones- is a Politician who was the deputy 1st leader of the Welsh Government and was the leader of Plaid Cymru.
• Ieuan Lloyd – Welsh swimmer who represented Britain at the Olympics in London 2012 and Rio in 2016.

Resources

• See our list of other Welsh boy’s names great for baby names.
• You might also be interested in the names Iwan and Ioan.

Ioan Name

Ioan is a Welsh boy’s name and it is well known throughout the World especially because of the Hollywood A-list celebrity Ioan Gruffudd who appeared in the moves ‘Black Hawk Down’ and ‘King Arthur’.

Meaning of Ioan

Ioan is the Welsh name for John meaning ‘to be gracious’ (or Yahweh is Gracious).

Popularity of Ioan

Ioan was the 70th most common baby boy’s name in Wales in 2017 making it the 8th most popular traditional Welsh baby’s name.

Pronunciation of Ioan

Ioan is pronounced as ‘YO-an’.

Famous People

Here is a list of a few people with the 1st name Ioan. If you know any more famous people called Ioan please post your comments below:

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  Ioan Gruffudd – is a Hollywood A-List actor from Aberdare who has starred in many blockbusters including the Titanic, Black Hawk Down and The Fantastic Four.

• Ioan Meredith – is a Welsh actor who has mainly worked on television productions.
• Ioan Evan – was from Llanelli and was a Labour politician and member of parliament in the late 1960s.

Resources

Looking for a name for your baby? See our Welsh Names for Boys page.

You might also be interested in the name Iwan or Ieuan which area similar Welsh name to Ioan.

Cai is a Welsh boy’s name and it is particularly popular with parents looking for a name for their child.

Meaning/Origin of the Name

 A variant of Sir Kay, King Arthur’s foster brother and a prominent figure in Arthurian mythology. This link to legendary tales adds a touch of chivalry and adventure. Cai was thought to have magical powers and was one of Arthur’s 2 faithful companions. 

Another possible origin of the name is a diminutive form of the Roman name Caius, meaning “rejoice” or “happy.” This connection evokes a sense of joy and optimism.

Popularity of the Name

Despite its long history, Cai is enjoying a modern resurgence in Wales. In 2022, it ranked as the 48th most popular baby name for boys, making it the 12th most popular among specifically Welsh names. This trend seems poised to continue, indicating the enduring appeal of Cai.

Cai is also a common Chinese surname.

Famous People Called Cai

• Cai Griffiths: is a London Irish rugby player who previously played for the Ospreys.
• Cai Brigden: is an actor who has starred in the TV series Casualty.
• Cai Devine: A Welsh rugby player known for his speed and skill.

There are not too many famous people called Cai, if you know of anyone who we’ve missed post your suggestions at the bottom of this page.

Symbolism:

The literal meaning of “rejoice” or “happy” imbues Cai with positive connotations. Additionally, its association with legendary figures like Sir Kay suggests qualities of bravery, loyalty, and nobility.

Resources

See our comprehensive list of Welsh boys’ names ideal if you are looking for a name for your baby.