Llewellyn is a unique and distinctively Welsh name with a rich history and significance. Originating from the Welsh word "Llewelyn," which is composed of two elements: "llw" meaning leader or hero, and "elwyn" derived from the personal name Elwen, Llewellyn translates to "leader's descendant."
The name Llewellyn has been prominent in Welsh history, particularly during the medieval period. Llewelyn ap Gruffudd (Llewelyn the Last) was a powerful prince who ruled Gwynedd in North Wales during the late 13th century. He is remembered for his struggle against English rule and his eventual defeat at the Battle of Orewin Bridge in 1282.
The name Llewellyn was also associated with several other influential figures in Welsh history, including Llewelyn ap Iorwerth (Llewelyn the Great), who expanded his kingdom to cover much of Wales in the late 12th century. These historical figures have contributed to the enduring popularity and prestige of the name Llewellyn among the Welsh people.
In contemporary times, Llewellyn has been adopted by parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their children. While it remains less common than many other Welsh names like Owen or Rhys, Llewellyn continues to be recognized as a strong, powerful, and historic choice.
In terms of its usage, Llewellyn is typically used as a masculine given name. However, due to its feminine origin element Elwen, some parents have chosen to use it for daughters as well. Variations of the name include Llewelyn, Llewellyn, and even the anglicized spelling Lloyd.
Overall, Llewellyn is a compelling choice for those seeking a distinctive and historically significant name with deep Welsh roots. Its unique sound and powerful meaning make it an appealing option for parents looking for something truly special for their child.
The given statistics show the number of births with the name Llewellyn in the United States each year from 1906 to 2023. Over this period, there have been a total of 324 babies named Llewellyn born in the U.S.
The name's popularity has fluctuated over time. It saw its peak popularity during the early 1920s with 17 births recorded in 1924 and 16 births in 1922. However, from the late 1930s onwards, the number of babies named Llewellyn declined significantly, averaging fewer than five births per year until the late 2000s.
In recent years, there has been a slight resurgence in the popularity of the name Llewellyn, with more than six births recorded each year since 2015. This suggests that while it may not be one of the most popular names currently, Llewellyn continues to be chosen by parents for their newborns.