Etymology & Historical Origin of the Baby Name Rhys

Rhys is an old Welsh name that means “enthusiasm”. Reese and Reece are the anglicized versions of this name. Although incorporated into the kingdom of Britain by the 15th century, the Welsh people are distinguished by their long and colorful history of survival against overwhelming odds. This speaks loudly to their independent determination and strong ties to their Celtic origins. The Romans were not able to subjugate these people during their occupation, nor could the Saxon invaders after the Romans left. The Welsh people maintained their own cultural identity and language despite the many threats to their independence. Rhys ap Gruffydd was a 12th century ruler of a south kingdom and would become one of the most powerful and dominant princes of Wales. He recaptured land from Henry II of England and later from Richard I. He was also successful in capturing a number of castles from Norman lordships. The name is also said to mean ‘dragon’ from Old Welsh “Rīs” – a passionate, fiery warrior. The dragon is an important symbol to Welsh people and appears prominently on their flag. Rhys is a very popular male name throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland today. It ranks particularly high in Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland.

All About the Baby Name – Rhys

Personality

OF THE BOY NAME RHYS

The number Seven personality is deeply mystical and highly in tune with their spirituality. They operate on a different wavelength than the average joe. Spending time alone comes easily to Sevens, as it gives them time to contemplate philosophical, religious and spiritual ideas in an effort to find "real truth".  Sevens are wise, but often exude mystery as if they are tapped into something the rest of us don't understand. They love the outdoors and are fed by nature. Sevens are constantly seeking to understand human nature, our place in the universe, and the mystery of life in general. This makes them quite artistic and poetic, but they are also keen observers with high intellect - so they are equally scientific-minded. Sevens are charitable and care deeply about the human condition.

Popularity

OF THE BOY NAME RHYS

Americans just got the memo on Rhys. As mentioned above, Rhys has been a popular name in the United Kingdom (particularly Wales), as well as Ireland. In the United States, Rhys just appeared on the male naming charts this century in 2004. Interest in the name caught on quickly; by 2006, Rhys has clearly demonstrated upwards momentum. Inside of five short years, the name has advanced over 500 positions on the charts. Rhys is still used with low levels of moderation, but we are ‘enthusiastic’ about his prospects for the future. The spelling of Rhys jazzes up boring old Reese or Reece – and unlike those other two aforementioned names, Rhys is NOT unisex but rather distinctly masculine. And distinctly Welsh for those parents who appreciate the Celtic aspect and the steely pride of the Welsh culture. Rhys is a name that’s both traditional yet original. Simple yet interesting. Common sounding yet unique in spelling. The Welsh have given us several attractive male names: Dylan, Gavin, Griffin, Maddox, Marvin, Trevor – but it seems that Rhys feels the most Welsh out of all of these. We can understand why some American parents have become ‘passionate’ about this name. It screams out both the good-nature and strong will of the Welsh people.

Quick Facts

ON RHYS

GENDER:

Boy

ORIGIN:

Celtic

NUMBER OF SYLLABLES:

1

RANKING POPULARITY:

489

PRONUNCIATION:

HREES

SIMPLE MEANING:

Enthusiastic; with ardor and passion

Characteristics

OF RHYS

Mystical

Wise

Eccentric

Intuitive

Imaginative

Philosophical

Solitary

Cultural References to the Baby Name – Rhys

Literary Characters

OF THE BABY NAME RHYS

We cannot find any significant literary characters by the name of Rhys

Childrens Books

ON THE BABY NAME RHYS

We cannot find any childrens books with the first name Rhys


Popular Songs

ON RHYS

We cannot find any popular or well-known songs with the name of Rhys


Famous People

NAMED RHYS

Rhys Davies (golfer)
Rhys Coiro (actor)
Rhys Ifans (actor)
Rhys Millen (racecar driver)
Rhys Lloyd (football player)
Rhys Chatham (composer)

Children of Famous People

NAMED RHYS

We cannot find any children of famous people with the first name Rhys

Historic Figures

WITH THE NAME RHYS

We cannot find any historically significant people with the first name Rhys