The ebb and flow of name popularity is a dynamic phenomenon. Names that once dominated the charts a decade ago can fade into obscurity in the next, just like my own name, Heather. Frequently, names stage a comeback after years of being dormant, illustrating the cyclical nature of naming trends influenced by societal shifts and cultural currents. Take vintage names from the early 20th century, for example—they’re currently enjoying a renaissance in popularity!
Today, we’ll delve into the 10 most popular Welsh names for boys and men. These selections are derived from the latest data (2021) provided by the Office for National Statistics in England and Wales. Each name is accompanied by an audio file with the correct Welsh pronunciation. Perhaps you’ll find inspiration among these names when the moment arrives to choose the perfect one for your little bundle of joy!
Osian
Osian is currently the 16th most popular boy’s name in Wales, and the most popular male Welsh name. All names that precede it are not Welsh in origin. It derives from the traditional Irish Gaelic name Oisin.
Famous Welshmen named Osian:
- Osian Roberts: a Welsh football coach
- Osian Pryce: Welsh rally driver
Dylan
Dylan is the 27th most popular boy’s name in Wales, and the 2nd most popular Welsh name for men. The origin of the name is uncertain.
Famous Welshmen named Dylan:
- Dylan Thomas: Welsh poet and writer
Elis
Elis is the 29th most popular name for boys in Wales, and the 3rd most popular male Welsh name. It is the Welsh variation of Ellis, itself derived from Elias, the Greek rendition of the prophet Elijah’s name.
Famous Welshmen named Elis:
- Elis James: Welsh comedian
- Elis Gruffydd: 15th century Welsh writer
Harri
Harri is the 32nd most popular name for boys in Wales, and the 4th most popular Welsh name for boys. It is the Welsh form of Harry, which is itself a form of Henry.
Famous Welshmen named Harri:
- Harri Morgan: Welsh rugby player
- Harri Williams: Welsh rugby player
Tomos
Tomos is the 40th most popular name for boys in Wales, and the 5th most popular Welsh name for boys. It is the Welsh form of Thomas.
Famous Welshmen named Tomos:
- Tomos Parry: Michelin-star chef and co-owner of Brat
Jac
Jac is the 45th most popular name for boys in Wales, and the 6th most popular Welsh name for boys. It is the Welsh form of Jack.
Famous Welshmen named Jac:
- Jac Morgan: Welsh rugby player
Evan
Evan is the 72nd most popular name for boys in Wales, and the 7th most popular Welsh name for boys. Evan is derived from Iefan, a Welsh form for the name John.
Ioan
Evan is the 81st most popular name for boys in Wales, and the 8th most popular Welsh name for boys. It is a Welsh form of John.
Famous Welshmen named Ioan:
- Ioan Gruffudd: Welsh actor
Cai
Cai is the 84th most popular name for boys in Wales, and the 9th most popular Welsh name for boys. It is the Celtic form of the Latin Gaius.
- Cai Evans: Welsh rugby player
Idris
Idris is the 85th most popular name for boys in Wales, and the 10th most popular Welsh name for boys. It is the combination of the words Iud (lord) and ris (impulsive).
Famous Welshmen named Idris:
- Idris Davies: Welsh poet
- Idris Bell: Welsh scholar and translator
