Taliesin is a unique and distinctive Welsh male given name. Its origins can be traced back to the 6th century, during the time of the Welsh bards and poets. The name Taliesin is derived from two elements in the ancient Brythonic language: "tal" meaning "shining," "radiant," or "foreboding," and "IESIN" which means "most excellent."
The most notable figure with this name was a legendary 6th-century Welsh bard who was said to have been reborn after being swallowed by a witch in the form of a hare. His story is told in a series of poems known as the Four Ancient Books of Wales, where he is portrayed as a shape-shifter and a powerful magician.
The name Taliesin gained further popularity through other mythological stories and legends in Wales, such as the tales of King Arthur and the Mabinogion. In these stories, Taliesin appears as a wise bard who possesses great knowledge and magical abilities.
Today, Taliesin is still considered an unusual but powerful name choice for boys in Wales and among those with an interest in Celtic mythology and culture. It's a name that carries a rich history and a deep significance rooted in ancient Welsh lore.
The name Taliesin has been given to a total of 235 babies born in the United States between the years 1993 and 2023. While it was not a popular choice during the early years, with only 5 births recorded in 1993, its popularity has steadily increased over time.
Between 2014 and 2023, Taliesin became one of the most frequently chosen names for newborn boys in the United States. In fact, it was given to a record-breaking 23 babies in 2021 alone, indicating that this name is gaining traction among parents-to-be.
Despite fluctuations in popularity over the years, Taliesin has consistently remained a unique and distinctive choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their sons. With its rich history and strong sound, it's no surprise that many families have chosen to bestow this name upon their newborns.