LLEWELYN
Llewelyn
Llewelyn is a British surname with ancient Welsh origins, deriving from the Old Welsh personal name Llywelyn. The name is known for its prominence in Welsh history and its association with several notable figures throughout the centuries.
The surname Llewelyn is believed to have originated from the Welsh words "llyw" meaning 'leader' or 'chief', and "elyn" meaning 'like an elm tree'. This etymology suggests that the name may have signified a familial connection to a notable leader or possessed characteristics associated with the elm tree, such as strength and resilience.
The most famous bearer of the name Llewelyn was Llywelyn the Great (1173–1240), a Prince of Gwynedd in Wales who managed to unite several Welsh kingdoms and exerted authority over a significant portion of Wales during the 13th century. His grandson, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd (1223–1282), also known as Llywelyn the Last, was the last native Prince of Wales before the conquest of Wales by Edward I of England in the late 13th century.
The surname Llewelyn continues to be prominent in Wales and the wider United Kingdom, with many individuals bearing the name tracing their ancestry back to the historic figures associated with it. It is a symbol of Welsh heritage and identity, reflecting the rich history and cultural significance of the Welsh people.
Overall, the surname Llewelyn holds a significant place in British history and genealogy, representing a legacy of leadership, resilience, and pride in Welsh heritage.
There are approximately 1,065 people named Llewelyn in the UK. That makes it roughly the 7,031st most common surname in Britain. Around 16 in a million people in Britain are named Llewelyn.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Christopher
- David
- Gareth
- Geraint
- Ian
- James
- John
- Jonathan
- Robert
- Stuart
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Angharad
- Bethan
- Elizabeth
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Pamela
- Sarah
- Sian
- Susan