Welsh

What does the baby name Welsh mean? Learn about what Welsh means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Welsh - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Welsh
W-E-L-S-H, is a 5-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Welsh
WEHLSH
Meaning of Welsh
From wales, foreign person or stranger, england.
Origin of Welsh
The name 'Welsh' has its origins in the Old English word 'welisc', which means 'foreign' or 'stranger'. It was used to describe the people who spoke the Celtic language, which was different from the Germanic languages spoken by the Anglo-Saxons. The earliest known use of the name 'Welsh' can be traced back to the 9th century, during the time when the Anglo-Saxons and the 'Welsh' were in close contact and often at odds.
American Names
English Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Welsh
Walach
Walice
Wallace
Wallach
Wallas
Wallie
Wallis
Wally
Waloch
Walsh
Welch
Popularity of Welsh
Throughout history, the popularity of the name 'Welsh' has had its ups and downs. In medieval times, when the 'Welsh' language and culture were marginalized by the English, the name 'Welsh' was not widely used. However, in recent centuries, there has been a resurgence of interest in 'Welsh' culture, and with it, the name 'Welsh' has gained popularity. In the 19th and 20th centuries, many parents began to embrace 'Welsh' names as a way to honor their heritage or simply because they found the name appealing.
Welsh currently has 1 like, and is in the top 14% of liked boy's names. The name Adom is slightly more popular than Welsh.

Etymology of Welsh

The etymology of the name 'Welsh' is closely tied to the 'Welsh' language itself. The 'Welsh' language, known as Cymraeg, is a Celtic language that has its roots in the ancient Brythonic language. The name 'Welsh' is derived from the Old English word 'welisc', which, as mentioned earlier, means 'foreign' or 'stranger'. This reflects the historical relationship between the Anglo-Saxons and the 'Welsh', with the 'Welsh' being seen as the 'other' or the 'foreigners' by the English.

Cultural Significance of Welsh

The name 'Welsh' holds significant cultural value in Wales, where it is closely associated with the 'Welsh' language, history, and identity. The 'Welsh' people have a strong sense of national pride, and the name 'Welsh' is often seen as a symbol of their unique heritage. Additionally, the name 'Welsh' is associated with the rich literary tradition of Wales, which includes the works of famous 'Welsh' poets and writers such as Dylan Thomas and R.S. Thomas.