Some boys’ names are derived from former Welsh Kings names. The popularity of the names mainly depended on how much interest the kings aroused among chroniclers in other parts of Britain or Europe. Below are common Welsh boys names:

Idwal

The name means ‘Lord of the ramparts or wall.’ It was common in early lineages. However, the 2019 data show that its popularity is diminishing.

Hywel

Hywel is a sixteenth-century name that means ’eminent’ or ‘rich.’ It was the most popular boy’s name before 1974, but it is slowly reducing in popularity.

Llywelyn

The name is translated to mean ‘like a lion.’ It originated from Lleu, which means ‘light’ or ‘radiant.’ The name is not common nowadays in Wales.

Gruffydd

The name is thought to have originated from the old Welsh word ‘Gruffudd’ or ‘Griffith.’ It could mean either ‘the god of the earth’ or ‘severe lord.’ The word was used to refer chiefly to Gruffudd ap Llywelyn (1055-1063), a powerful king.

Dafydd

The name is translated to mean ‘dearly loved one’ or ‘beloved.’ It has been present in early lineages and remained popular into the modern period.

Owain

The name is translated to mean ‘young warrior’ or ‘well born.’ It was first used during the period of Owain Glyndŵr, and it remains popular today.

Useful Resources

Discover the meaning and popularity of other Welsh boys’ names.