Reese

Origin and Meaning: The surname Reese is of Welsh origin, derived from the personal name Rhys or ap Rhys, which translates to 'ardour' or 'fiery warrior'. Rhys is a common Welsh given name that dates back to medieval times.

History: The Reese surname has ancient roots in Wales, where it was first found in the region of Glamorgan. The Rhys family played a prominent role in Welsh history, with notable figures such as Rhys ap Gruffydd, a powerful prince of medieval Wales. Over time, variations of the name, such as Rees, Reece, and Reice, emerged as branches of the original lineage.

Distribution: The surname Reese is most commonly found in Wales and the bordering regions of England. It has also spread to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, through Welsh migration.

Famous Bearers:

  • Matthew Rhys Evans (known professionally as Matthew Rhys): A Welsh actor known for his roles in "The Americans" and "Perry Mason".
  • Reese Witherspoon: An American actress with Welsh ancestry, known for her roles in "Legally Blonde" and "Big Little Lies".

Variants: Variant forms of the Reese surname include Rees, Reece, Rease, and Reice.

Coat of Arms: The Reese family coat of arms typically features elements such as lions, stars, and scallops, reflecting its Welsh heritage and noble lineage.

Trivia:

  • The name Reese gained popularity as a first name in the United States due to actress Reese Witherspoon's fame.
  • The Welsh spelling of the name, Rhys, has regained popularity in recent years, particularly in Wales and among followers of Welsh culture.

References:

  • Thomas, P. (2003). Surnames of the United Kingdom: A Concise Etymological Dictionary. London: Routledge.
  • Morgan, P. (2010). The Welsh Surnames of Wales. Cardiff: Welsh Heritage Press.

There are approximately 670 people named Reese in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around ten in a million people in Britain are named Reese.

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

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • Daniel
  • David
  • Gareth
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Nicholas
  • Philip
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • Timothy

Female

  • Angela
  • Anne
  • Barbara
  • Elizabeth
  • Hayley
  • Jennifer
  • Lorraine
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Pamela
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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