Rhiannon

/ree-AN-non/

WelshGirl

Rhiannon is a Welsh girl's name pronounced /ree-AN-non/. Specifically meaning great queen, this name is deeply rooted in Welsh mythology and legend.

Meaning of Rhiannon

Specifically meaning great queen, this name is deeply rooted in Welsh mythology and legend.

Rhiannon is derived from the Old Celtic name Rigantona, composed of the elements 'rigan' meaning queen and the augmentative suffix '-on'. In the Mabinogion, a collection of medieval Welsh tales, she is a prominent figure associated with horses and sovereignty who possesses birds that can wake the dead and lull the living to sleep.

Origin
Welsh
Pronunciation
/ree-AN-non/

Cultural background

While historically Welsh, the name gained international popularity in the late 20th century across English-speaking countries, particularly after the release of the 1975 Fleetwood Mac song of the same name. It remains a classic choice in Wales and is occasionally used in neo-pagan communities due to its mythological roots.

Variations & nicknames

  • Rhianon
  • Riannon
  • Rhian
  • Rhi
  • Ree
  • Rhianna

Famous people named Rhiannon

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Rhiannon Giddens

    Grammy Award-winning American musician and founding member of the Carolina Chocolate Drops.

    Music · 2000s–present

  • Rhiannon Lassiter

    British author known for writing science fiction and fantasy novels for young adults.

    Literature · 1990s–present

  • Rhiannon Fish

    Canadian-born Australian actress known for roles in Home and Away and The 100.

    Film · 2000s–present

  • Rhiannon Roberts

    Professional footballer who plays for the Wales national team.

    Sport · 2010s–present

  • Rhiannon (Mythological Figure)

    A major figure in the Mabinogion who appears as a strong-willed, supernatural lady.

    Literature · 12th century (literary)

Frequently asked about Rhiannon

What does Rhiannon mean?
Rhiannon is a Welsh name meaning 'Great Queen' or 'Divine Queen', derived from the reconstructed Celtic name Rigantona.
How do you pronounce Rhiannon?
It is typically pronounced ree-AN-on in English, or hree-AN-on in Welsh, emphasizing the second syllable.
Is Rhiannon a boy or girl name?
Rhiannon is traditionally and almost exclusively a girl's name.
Is Rhiannon a rare name?
It is a well-established name that peaked in popularity in the 1970s and 80s; it is currently moderately common in Wales and less frequent in the United States.

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