Rees

Rees is a Welsh and Cornish surname of patronymic origin, derived from the Welsh personal name Rhys or ap Rhys, meaning "ardor" or "enthusiasm." The name is commonly found in Wales and southwestern England, with variations such as Rees, Reese, and Rhys.

Origins:

The surname Rees can be traced back to ancient Welsh and Cornish origins, dating to the medieval period. The name was used as a patronymic, indicating descent from an ancestor named Rhys. The Welsh roots of the name reflect the rich cultural history of Wales and its language.

Distribution:

The surname Rees is predominantly found in Wales, particularly in counties such as Glamorgan, Pembrokeshire, and Carmarthenshire. It is also present in Cornwall and other regions of southwestern England. Over time, the name has spread to other English-speaking countries due to migration and emigration patterns.

Notable Individuals:

  • Dylan Thomas Rees: A Welsh poet and writer known for his works such as "Under Milk Wood" and "Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night."
  • Tessa Reese: A Cornish artist known for her landscape paintings inspired by the rugged beauty of the Cornish coast.
  • Gareth Rees: A former Welsh rugby union player who represented the national team in international competitions.

Variants:

Variants of the surname Rees include Reese, Rhys, Rice, and Price. These variations reflect the diverse spellings and pronunciations that have evolved over time in different regions.

Legacy:

The surname Rees has a long-standing presence in Welsh and Cornish history, representing a connection to the traditions and heritage of these regions. Many individuals with the surname Rees have made significant contributions to fields such as literature, art, and sports, adding to the legacy of the name.

There are approximately 47,734 people named Rees in the UK. That makes it the 147th most common surname in Britain. Around 733 in a million people in Britain are named Rees.

Surname type: From given name or forename

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Wales

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Welsh

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Gareth
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Stephen
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Julie
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Sian
  • Susan

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