Gareth

Pronunciation: [ g-EHR-ihth ]

Boy Name #2,658 Most Popular Hidden Gem 2 Syllables

An Arthurian knight's name from the Welsh tradition

Welsh English British

Classic Literary Strong Traditional Vintage

Meaning & Origin

"gentle, gentleness"

Origin: Welsh

Language: Welsh

"gentle ruler"

Origin: Celtic

Language: Welsh

Things to Know About This Name

Associated with the awkward character Gareth Brent from The Office (UK)

The Story of Gareth

Gareth is a Welsh name that first appeared in Arthurian legend as Sir Gareth of Orkney, one of the Knights of the Round Table in Malory's Le Morte d'Arthur (1485). The name is thought to derive from the Welsh "gwaredd" meaning "gentleness" or from an older Celtic root. It became established as a given name largely through its Arthurian connection.

Gareth was popular in Wales and England in the mid-20th century. Its popularity declined partly due to the association with the nerdy character Gareth Brent in the British version of The Office (2001-2003).

In Welsh culture, Gareth carries the honor of Arthurian legend. Wales has produced many famous Gareths — the name is particularly beloved in rugby-playing communities for Gareth Edwards, considered Wales' greatest player.

Fun Facts

Sir Gareth was described as the gentlest and most courteous of all the Knights of the Round Table
Gareth Edwards is widely considered the greatest rugby player Wales has ever produced

Gareth in Other Languages

Welsh Gareth

Cornish Gareth

English Gareth

Famous People Named Gareth

Gareth Bale

Athlete

1989

Welsh footballer who played for Real Madrid and became Wales' most capped outfield player

Gareth Edwards

Athlete

1947

Welsh rugby union player widely considered the greatest Welsh rugby player of all time

Sir Gareth of Orkney Fictional

Other

Knight of the Round Table in Arthurian legend, known for his gentleness and courtesy

Quick Facts

Gender: Boy
Syllables: 2
Popularity Rank: #2,658
Total SSA Count: 50
Cultural Origins: Welsh English British
Pronunciation: Moderate
Formality: Moderate
Cross-Cultural Ease: Low

Common Nicknames

Gaz Gary

Pairs Well With

Gareth Owen Gareth Rhys Gareth James Gareth David Gareth Thomas Gareth Morgan Gareth Evan

Sibling Names

Rhiannon Owen Bronwen Alun Seren Dylan Ffion

Also a Girl Name

Gareth is also used as a girl name, ranked #64525.

View Gareth as a girl name →

Similar Names

Everett Merritt Bennett Jarrett Jared Barrett Gerard Truitt

Playground Safety

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Frequently Asked Questions About Gareth

What does the name Gareth mean?

"gentle, gentleness" (from Welsh). "gentle ruler" (from Celtic). Gareth is a Welsh name that first appeared in Arthurian legend as Sir Gareth of Orkney, one of the Knights of the Round Table in Malory's Le Morte d'Arthur (1485). The name is thought to derive from the Welsh "gwaredd" meaning "gentleness" or from an older Celtic root. It became established as a given name largely through its Arthurian connection.

What is the origin of the name Gareth?

Gareth has Welsh, Celtic, English, and British origins. In Welsh, it means "gentle, gentleness". In Celtic, it means "gentle ruler".

Is Gareth a boy or girl name?

Gareth is used as both a boy and girl name. As a boy name, it is ranked #2658. As a girl name, it is ranked #64525. Gareth is more commonly used as a boy name.

How do you pronounce Gareth?

Gareth is pronounced g-EHR-ihth.

How popular is the name Gareth?

Gareth is currently ranked #2658 in popularity for boy names in the United States.

What are common nicknames for Gareth?

Common nicknames for Gareth include Gaz and Gary.

What are good middle names for Gareth?

Popular middle name pairings include Gareth Owen, Gareth Rhys, Gareth James, Gareth David, Gareth Thomas, Gareth Morgan, and Gareth Evan.

What are good sibling names for Gareth?

Names that pair well with Gareth as siblings include Rhiannon, Owen, Bronwen, Alun, Seren, Dylan, and Ffion.

How many syllables does Gareth have?

Gareth has 2 syllables, making it easy to say and remember.

Is Gareth a common or rare name?

Gareth is an uncommon name, ranked #2658 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.

About the Name Gareth

Gareth is a boy name with Welsh, English, and British origins . The name means "gentle, gentleness" in Welsh .

Is Gareth a boy or girl name? Gareth is used as both a boy and girl name. As a boy name, it ranks #2,658 in popularity. As a girl name, it ranks #64,525. Gareth is more commonly used as a boy name.

Gareth is currently ranked #2,658 in popularity for boy names in the United States.

The name Gareth has 2 syllables and is pronounced g-EHR-ihth, making it easy to pronounce and remember.

Common nicknames for Gareth include Gaz and Gary. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.