100 Traditional Welsh Boy Names: And Their Meanings

Adda

Adda is the Welsh version of the Biblical first man, Adam. Its first recorded use in the U.S. was in 1902, but today Adda is very rarely used, even in Wales. Adda is a unique boy’s name that embodies authentic Welsh heritage.

Aeron

Aeron is thought to mean the River Aeron as well as berry and battle. Aeron is the Celtic goddess of battle, so it could be a strong name for your boy.

Aidan

• Origin: Celtic, Welsh
• Meaning: Little fiery one, pupil of Dewi
• Variations: Aiden
• Namesakes: Aidan Turner, Irish actor. Aidan Quinn, American actor.
• Description: Aidan, or Aiden, is a centuries-old Celtic baby boy name. It developed from the original Welsh, Aeddan, who was the medieval eleventh century Prince of Gwynedd. Aiden is now well known in most of the world and could be a great choice for your little fireball!

Alban

Alban is from the Latin “Albanus,” the land that became Albania. The significance to the Welsh is that in the third century, Saint Alban was the first British Christian martyr. Alban is also the Welsh name for Scotland. For a sophisticated-sounding, confident choice, Alban is an intriguing boy name.

Alec

Alec is the Welsh form of the Greek “Alexander,” with the same meaning of protector. Reaching periods of popularity in America, Alec is more consistently popular in England and Wales. It’s a strong, confident name, both easy to say and to spell.

Alun

• Origin: Welsh, Celtic
• Meaning: Handsome, cheerful, noble
• Namesakes: Alun Davies, Welsh guitarist. Alun Wyn Jones, Welsh rugby player.
• Description: Alun is the Welsh form of the Celtic, Alan. The ‘u’ exchanged for the second ‘a’ in the classic, Alan, creates an appealing change. Alun is both cute and confident.

Alwyn

Alwyn means a generous or trustworthy person. It’s also said to relate to the River Alwen in Wales. As an alternative to names such as Alvin or Alden, you might want to consider the stylish look of Alwyn.

Andreas

Andreas is the preferred Welsh version of the Greek, Andrew, with the same meaning of manly and mighty. Andreas gives Andrew some extra charm and flavor and is very popular in Scandinavia, Germany, and Austria.

Arawn

Arawn is a god of revenge, war, and the hunt in Welsh mythology. He is the king of Annwn, which is a legendary afterlife world of eternal youth. Arawn might be a great name for your little king.

Aron

Aron is an alternate spelling of the Biblical Aaron. Without the second ‘a’, the name seems even stronger in its compactness. Aron might be the ideal boy name if you want a strong first name with a longer middle name.

Arthur

The legendary King Arthur is important in Welsh culture, so it’s not surprising that name is still much-loved. Arthur is strong and classic with a noble, upstanding feel.

Arwel

If you like Arthur and Arwyn, you may want to also consider Arwel. It’s common only in Wales and not even used much in England.

Barti

Barti is the short form of Bartholomew, the Hebrew Biblical name. In Wales, Barti refers specifically to the pirate Black Bart, or Bartholomew Roberts. He’s remembered as Barti Ddu, who captured many ships. For an unusual Welsh name, you won’t have to walk the plank to consider Barti.

Bergam

Y Bergam was a fourteenth-century Welsh poet. The meaning of his name isn’t known, but Bergam, in that particular spelling, is a fairly uncommon surname found mainly in Morocco, America, and Croatia. With its soft and sophisticated sound, Bergam is strongly stylish!

Bowen

Bowen is an ancient Welsh name for males. With its stylish, contemporary appeal, whoever thought an ancient first name could be this charming? In 2020, Bowen also placed 35 in the most common surnames in Wales.

Bradley

Since the 1800s, Bradley’s been a solid name choice in Wales and England, where it’s often in the Top 100. Consistently in America’s Top 1000, Bradley is a popular classic with an upscale sound.

Brenin

Brenin is the Welsh version of the English and Irish, Brennan. Its stylish spelling and royal meaning make Brenin an appealing boy name.

Brian

Of all English-speaking countries, Brian has remained the steadiest and highest in popularity in England and Wales. It’s a solid name worth considering!

Brice

Brice is a bold yet pleasant name. It’s said to mean the “son of Rhys” and also the “son of the passionate one.” You may want to consider Brice if you like Bruce and Brian.

Broderick

The traditional Welsh name, Broderick, is rarely used today in the U.K. except as an English surname. It is fairly popular in the United States, though, and Broderick does have an appealing upscale vibe.

Cadell

In Welsh mythology, Cadell is a warrior name. Cadell is said to translate to “spirit of the battle,” and it’s also a surname. If you’re considering similar battle-themed names like Caden and Aeron, you might want to add Cadell to your list.

Caden

Caden is a popular name in Wales, Scotland, America, and much of England. It’s an attractive choice that seems timelessly stylish. It’s also easy to pronounce and spell.

Cain

In the Bible, Cain is Adam’s son. Cain is somewhat commonly used as a boy name in Wales and England today. In Ireland, Cain is a Gaelic surname derived from O’Cathain and MacCathain.

Caio

Popular in Wales and also China, Caio has a long history of baby name use. With its much-desired meanings of happiness and fortune, it’s not surprising. Plus, Caio’s look and spelling fit sophisticatedly well today even though it’s an old, traditional name!

Carwyn

Carwyn is a favorite in Wales and carries the beautiful meaning “blessed love.” “Car” is love, and “wyn” means “blessed” in Welsh. The blessed love you have for your boy might just fit with the name Carwyn.

Cecil

From the Latin, Sextus, meaning sixth, Cecil, is anglicized from the Old Welsh, Sessylt. It’s a fairly common Welsh surname today. Cecil is also used for baby names in Wales, although its popularity was much higher in the 1920s.

Conan

Conan is the name of an Irish saint and several British dukes. In addition to meaning intelligent, some name researchers say Conan also means “little wolf.” Whatever its exact meaning, Conan exudes power and confidence.

Darren

Darren is the anglicized version of the Welsh, Derwen. Both versions are quite popular in Wales and England, and Darren is a classic favorite in the U.S.

Deri

In Welsh, Deri is plural for oak trees. Deri is also a village in Wales and a fairly common first name that isn’t used too much today. If you like Darren and Deron, you may want to consider Deri with its cute spelling and casual vibe.

Derwen

Derwen is the Welsh version of the English, Darren. It’s a nature name and also a village in Wales. If you’re an outdoors enthusiast looking for an uncommon Welsh name, Derwen could be worth considering.

Dewi

Just as the English have David, Davey, and Dave, the Welsh have Dafydd, Dewi, and Dai. So if you think your beloved little one could be a Welsh Davey, then Dewi could be a great choice!

Edwyn

A name fit for a king, Edwyn has an upscale vibe, yet it can also be shortened to Ed or Wyn.

Elgar

Elgar is an uncommon Welsh first name dating back to before the 1000s. It began as a surname in Wales then became a first name that isn’t used much today. If you’re looking for a traditional Welsh male name that’s rare and strong in sound, Elgar might work.

Elyan

Elyan, also called Helyan, was an Arthurian Knight of the Round Table. In addition to a second in time, some name researchers think Elyan also means the sun as it derives from the Greek “Helios.” In any case, Elyan is an interesting and stylish name!

Emrick

Emrick, with its formal, lofty vibe, isn’t used much today in the U.K. or the U.S. It’s more common as a surname in Wales. A great thing about Emrick is that although formal, it can be shortened to Rick.

Emyr

Emyr is a well-known name in Wales. It’s rarely used today but can be a good choice if you want a distinctive and rare Welsh boy’s name.

Evan

The popular and long-standing U.K. favorite, Evan, stems from the Welsh words for John, Leuan, and Lfan. The closest English translation is “the Lord is gracious.” If you’re hoping for a shorter ‘E’ name like Ewan or Emyr, Evan may also be a consideration.

Ewan

Similar to the Welsh and English, Evan, the name Ewan is thought to stem from a variation of the Biblical boy’s name, John. Ewan might be a good option if you’re looking for a shorter boy name with a strong sound.

Gareth

Gareth is thought to have developed from the Welsh word “gwaredd” for gentle. Gareth was a legendary Arthurian Knight of the Round Table. You may find that Gareth could be the perfect name for your own little gentle knight!

Garth

Garth is thought to be both derived from Gareth, meaning gentle, and from the word for a building enclosure. A courtyard or the grounds around a house or other structure is called a garth. Garth makes a strong-sounding name that stands out.

Gavin

Gavin is a classic boy name that stems from the ancient Welsh, Gawain, meaning white hawk. From “gwalch,” we get hawk and “gwyn” means white. Gavin is a fairly popular name both in Wales and the U.S.

Glyn

Glyn is the Welsh version of the Scottish Glen. The female form is Glynis. Glyn may be an option for you if you like Glen but want a little Welsh style thrown in!

Griffin

In Welsh mythology, a griffin, or Gruffydd, is a mythical winged creature with a lion’s body and an eagle’s wings. Griffin is a popular surname and given name in Wales and worth considering for a great dash of Welsh culture. What boy wouldn’t want to be named after a fierce flying lion?

Grigor

Grigor is the Welsh form of Gregory, derived from the Greek “Gregorius.” Besides being common in Wales, Grigor is also very popular in Bulgaria, Russia, and Ukraine.

Gruffydd

Popular today throughout the U.K. as well as Wales, Gruffydd is the name of a Welsh king and many princes. From the Old Welsh, Grippiud, Gruffydd can look confusing to say, but it’s simple when you know it’s said as “Griffith.” It might suit your little prince or lord if you want something royally Welsh!

Gwyn

Gwyn is a short, strong name that mixes well with many different middle and last names. You may decide Gwyn could be an option if you like Glyn or Ewen. Gwyn is also a Welsh surname.

Halwyn

For a literal ‘salt of the earth’ name, consider Halwyn. It’s traditionally Welsh and there’s the choice of Hal or Wyn for short.

Harri

Harri is the Welsh version of Harry and a classic name in Wales. The spelling with the ‘i’ at the end makes all the difference in Harri having a lot of cute style!

Heddwyn

Heddwyn is well known in Wales and England, but seldom used today. If you want something uncommon and like names such as Edwyn and Medwyn, then Heddwyn might be an option.

Hefin

Hefin is an great choice if you’re due in the summer or more specifically, Juno. In Welsh, Hefin means midsummer, specifically the month of June. It’s still a fairly common name throughout Wales today.

Howell

Certainly a name with lots of personality, Howell has a mighty Welsh link. Howell is connected with Hywel the Good, the King of Wales, in 926. Some name researchers say that in addition to its meaning of famous and respected, Howell also means “alert one.”

Iago

Iago is the Welsh, Celtic, and Spanish version of the Hebrew, lakov, or Jacob. Lakov means supplanter or replacer. A short, yet dramatic choice, Iago is sure to add rich flavor to any names put with it!

Ianto

Ianto in Welsh means Johnny, so it can be an excellent choice if you want to honor a family member named John. With its interesting spelling and appealing sound, Ianto is a great name pick of its own accord. It’s good to also note that John in Welsh is Iwan or Ifan.

Ifan

Meaning John, Ifan is a solid Welsh given name. You can use Ifan along with another Wales classic as a middle name or on its own.

Iolo

Iolo is the short form of the Welsh, Iorwerth, and typically used on its own. Iolo is well-known in Wales and to English-speaking ears, and the name sounds close to the color yellow. Iolo is for sure an interesting choice!

Irving

Irving is a classic, but has a unique sound. It’s also water-related in meaning, so Irving is ideal if you’re hoping to find a traditional Welsh nature name. In Wales, Irving is common as a first or last name.

Jac

Jac is the Welsh form of Jack which in turn stems from the Hebrew, John. Although Jac dates back to medieval Wales, it exudes modern vibes!

Jeston

Jeston is a rarely used Welsh name with unique appeal. It’s spelling is interesting and it’s meaning of an upright, smart person is attractive. Some name researchers say Jeston also means great or magnificent.

Kimball

Kimball is a Welsh male name and a surname. It’s distinctive and bold, plus simple to say and spell. If you are looking for a strong, two-syllable name, this may be one to consider.

Kynon

Kynon means Clydno’s son. Clydno was an Arthurian hero. Although Kynon is a name from medieval Wales, it seems to fit right in with names like Kanye and Kyler today.

Lewis

Lewis is the Welsh and English version of the French boy’s name, Louis. It’s super popular in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Interestingly, Lewis is also one of the Top 10 surnames in Wales. For real Welsh flair, you could call your Lewis Llew for short!

Llyod

Lloyd evolved from “llwyd,” which is Welsh for gray. Lloyd was first used in Wales as a nickname for an older, or gray-haired, man. There might be some irony in choosing this name for a baby, but it could be done in the hopes of him living a long life!

Maddox

The meanings of champion and fortunate combine with “son of Madoc” for the definition of the name Maddox. Madoc was a Welsh prince, and legend has it that he discovered America before Columbus. Maddox is both quirky and stylish!

March

March is a boy name in Wales and also a common surname. March is strong and confident and might be fitting for your own “legendary son.”

Marlin

Marlin is from Myrddin and is a Welsh variant of Merlin. In addition to a sea hill, Marlin can mean “land near the lake.” If you love lakes or oceans, Marlin might be a great name for the newest love of your life.

Martyn

Martyn is the Welsh variation of the men’s name, Martin, which stems from the Latin boy name “Martinus.” Martinus relates to the Roman god of war. The Welsh spelling, Martyn, creates a stylish boy name with a feisty appeal!

Maxen

Maxen proves that an ancient name can be cool! From the Latin, “maximus,” meaning maximum, Maxen is Welsh for the toughest opponent. It refers to the Roman emperor, Magnus. Maxen fits right in with modern names and includes Max for a nickname.

Medwyn

Medwyn is the name of a Welsh saint. It has an old-fashioned, upright vibe. If you like similar Wales standbys such as Edwyn and Hedwynn, you might find Medwyn a good option.

Merlin

Merlin is derived from Myrddin. In Arthurian mythology, Merlin was the wizard who mentored King Arthur. Is there any little boy who wouldn’t want to be named after a legendary wizard?

Mervyn

Mervyn is from Myrddin, meaning the famous mythical Arthurian wizard. Merlin. Mervyn is a fairly common first name in Wales as well as an uncommon surname. The ‘v’ in the name adds great interest and Mervyn also has the “yn” ending seen in many Welsh names.

Morien

Morien is a very old Welsh name with a sophisticated look. It’s a great sea-themed option to use for a first or middle name for your boy.

Myrick

From the Latin, Mauritius, meaning dark, Myrick is the Welsh version of Maurice. Myrick might be a consideration for you if you like names like Emrick.

Osian

Osian relates to the Irish mythological poet and warrior, Oisin. His name, like Osian, means little deer. The stylish favorite, Osian, might be perfect for your little dear!

Owen

Owen is also popular in America, typically in the Top 1000 for the last century. A strong sound with easy spelling, Owen has a confident, assured vibe.

Powell

Powell is a classic Welsh boy name. It’s also in position 25 as one of the most common surnames in Wales. Powell is strong, confident, and a standout name that can blend well with many different first and last names.

Rhain

Rhain is an attractive name, both in its sound and spelling, which looks like a sophisticated form of “Rain.” Its meaning is spear, though, which adds mightiness to its essence. The one caveat is that Rhain can be confused with Rhian which is a Welsh girl name meaning “maiden.”

Rhett

Rhett became well known worldwide thanks to the literary hero with that name in the epic “Gone With the Wind.” Rhett is an anglicized form of the Welsh, Rhys, which has the same meaning.

Saer

Meaning a variety of trades, Saer is a solid name with stylish appeal. Its short, soft sound makes it ideal with pretty much any surname and middle name.

Selwyn

The best definition for Selwyn is “castle friend.” Selwyn has an old-fashioned vibe and is also an interesting, approachable name. It relates to the first Anglican Bishop of New Zealand, George Augustus Selwyn.

Steffan

Steffan is the Welsh and many other nationalities’ version of the Greek male name “Stephanos,” meaning Stephen. Many Christian countries have names relating to Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and Wales is included. Steffan can make a strong male first or middle name.

Tarran

Tarran is the god of thunder in Celtic mythology. As a boy name, Tarran is most commonly found in Wales and England. It’s very rare in the U.S.

Tomos

Welsh for Thomas, Tomos means twin. Tomos is a solid Welsh boy’s name that has endured throughout the generations.

Trenton

A crisp, upstanding-sounding classic, Trenton is familiar enough yet also different from many “T” boy names today. Trenton has spent a considerable amount of time in the American Top 1000 names over the last 50 years.

Tristan

Tristan translates from the Welsh as “noise of arms.” Tristan was an Arthurian Knight of the Round Table and some name researchers think the name also means “bold.” Tristan has a pleasing, attractive vibe along with its boldness!

Vaughn

Soft yet strong, Vaughn is an attractive name. It’s also a fairly common surname. If you’re thinking about a single-syllable Welsh name, Vaughn could be the one!

Wyn

Wyn is a popular name in Wales, either alone or as the ending in another name such as Carwyn, Gwyn, or Halwyn. Wyn is compact and confident and works well as either a first or middle name.

Yale

A strong and interesting Welsh name, Yale, is derived from the Hebrew male’s name Yael, meaning mountain goat or to climb. It’s also a surname in Wales, and Yale University is named after one of the bearers of that last name. Yale might be the powerfully traditional baby boy name you’re looking for!