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 1st 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.