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Rhys

Boy name · 3,264 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Rhys: 3,264 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 219 births in 2008.

The name Rhys is of Welsh origin, meaning "enthusiasm" or "ardour," and has deep roots in Celtic history. It is a classic Welsh name, originally spelled with a 'y' to represent the vowel sound distinct in the Welsh language. One of its most famous bearers is Rhys ap Gruffydd, a 12th-century Welsh prince who led a rebellion against Norman rule, and more recently, actor Rhys Ifans has brought the name to international attention. The name also appears in place names such as Rhos-on-Sea in Wales, which shares the same root. A notable variant is Reese, which has become popular in the United States, largely thanks to actress Reese Witherspoon, though the Welsh spelling retains a strong cultural identity.

Boy 44 of 52 years

Peak year
2008219 babies
Latest (2025)
#27813 babies
Total births
3,264since 1979
5-year trend
▼ 44%vs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2008 · 219
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).