Tristen

Tristen is a variant spelling of Tristan. Tristan with an “a” is considered the correct spelling of this Celtic name, while all other mutated spellings are American inventions. Tristan, like the older version of the name Drustan, dates back to medieval times originating from Celtic legend, most notably as the hero of a popular tragic/romance story known as “Tristan and Isolde.” There are several variations of the narrative, but we’ll give you the abridged version. After the fall of the Roman Empire (6th century), the King of Cornwall, Mark, sends his nephew Tristan to fetch his future bride, Isolde, an Irish princess. Once Tristan reaches Isolde, the two inadvertently drink a love-potion that was meant for Isolde and Mark on their wedding night. Of course, Tristan and Isolde fall madly in love as a consequence, which infuriates the king. The stories diverge greatly from here, but in many cases in the end, Tristan dies of grief without Isolde by his side and she is left swooning over his grave. Our research shows differing etymological origins for the name Tristan. Many think the name was influenced by way of the French, from the Latin word “tristis” which means sad, in reference to the young man’s tragic fate. Tristan has also been linked with the Picts (a now-defunct Celtic tribe that emerged at the time of the Gaels in Scotland), and their commonly used given name Drest/Drust, a diminutive of Drustan. The Celtic word “drest” means ‘riot, tumult’ which is also in keeping with Tristan’s calamity. The popular legend also inspired a 19th century opera, “Tristan und Isolde,” composed by Richard Wagner.