Find out how popular the first name Reece has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Reece by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Reece is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 80% of people named Reece being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 686 male babies and 171 female babies born with the name Reece.

The history of the first name Reece

The name Reece has its origins in the Welsh language and culture, with its roots tracing back to the early medieval period. It is derived from the Welsh word "rhys," which means "ardor" or "enthusiasm." The name gained popularity in Wales during the Middle Ages and was often associated with individuals of prominent status or nobility.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Reece can be found in the historical records of the Welsh princes and rulers. In the 12th century, a Welsh prince named Rhys ap Gruffydd, also known as The Lord Rhys, played a significant role in the struggle against Norman rule in Wales. His legacy contributed to the enduring popularity of the name among the Welsh people.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Reece or its variations. One such individual was Reece Winstone (1900-1991), a Welsh actor known for his roles in films like "The Elephant Man" and "The Dresser." Another prominent bearer of the name was Reece Shearsmith (born 1969), an English actor, writer, and comedian best known for his work in shows like "The League of Gentlemen" and "Inside No. 9."

In the literary realm, Reece Pemberton (1904-1950) was an American novelist and short story writer whose works often explored themes of race and social injustice. Additionally, Reece Wilkinson (1890-1968) was a British artist known for his landscape paintings and depictions of rural life.

While the name Reece has Welsh roots, it has also been adopted and used in various other cultures and languages. For instance, in English-speaking countries, the name has gained popularity as a variant of the more common name "Rhys." It has also been used as a surname, although this report focuses solely on its use as a given name.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Reece was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Reece, please contact us.

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