Rhys

♀ Girl

Rhys Pronunciation

Rhys is pronounced REES /ˈris/High

Meaning: Ardor, enthusiasm, fiery zeal; a Welsh name borne by medieval princes, here used for girlsHigh

In 30 seconds: A Welsh prince's fire, in one sleek syllable: Rhys means 'ardor, enthusiasm' — a name of medieval kings now crossing to girls with Reese-like cool.

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Origin HighWelsh

MeaningArdor, enthusiasm, fiery zeal; a Welsh name borne by medieval princes, here used for girls

U.S. rank (2024)#3622 ↘ Falling

2024 U.S. births43 girls (0.00% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2022

Total births (all-time)≈ 849

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Rhys is a Welsh name meaning 'ardor, enthusiasm' — borne by princes like the Lord Rhys (Rhys ap Gruffydd). The anglicized Reese became a girls' name in America (Reese Witherspoon); the authentic Welsh spelling Rhys, traditionally masculine, now appears for girls too.

It registers thinly for girls in recent records, riding Reese's popularity with Welsh authenticity. Rare, fiery-rooted, and crisply unisex.

Did you know? The Lord Rhys ruled medieval Wales in the twelfth century and hosted the first recorded eisteddfod — Wales's great poetry-and-music festival; the name means 'fiery enthusiasm' for good reason.

Overall data confidence 85%

Behind the Name — Rhys — etymology

Variations

ReeseReeceRees

Nicknames

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Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Rhys…

Reese— the anglicized girls' favorite

Reece— the alternate spelling of the same name

Rhett— a fellow one-syllable name with edge

Quinn— the companion crisp unisex pick

→ See all names like Rhys

Browse the whole category: All Welsh names → · All origins →

Frequently Asked

How do you pronounce Rhys?

Rhys is pronounced REES (/ˈris/). Press play above to hear Rhys said aloud.

How do you say Rhys?

Rhys is said REES (/ˈris/). Press play above to hear Rhys said aloud.

What does the name Rhys mean?

Rhys is Welsh for 'ardor, enthusiasm, fiery zeal' — a name of medieval Welsh princes.

Is Rhys a boy or girl name?

Rhys is traditionally a boy's name; this page covers its growing use for girls.

How popular is Rhys?

Rhys is a rare name for girls in the U.S.; Reese is the familiar feminine form.