Unisex name · Welsh
Reese
“ardor, enthusiasm”
Vibes
Explore Reese further
Similar-feel alternatives, or middle-name candidates that pair well with Reese — both ranked by the same scoring system (vibe overlap, syllable rhythm, origin compatibility).
About the name
Reese is Welsh — Rhys, "ardor, enthusiasm, fiery warrior" — an ancient Welsh king-name that America respelled phonetically and Reese Witherspoon carried to the top of the marquee.
Reese holds American top-200 use for girls with steady boy use — the rare truly bidirectional name.
One warm syllable. It pairs well with longer middles (Reese Evangeline, Reese Alexander). On our vibe map it is Modern Minimalist with Heirloom Welsh kings and Y2K-romcom glow — ardor, anglicized.
More Welsh names
Reese sits in our Welsh set — these share its roots.
All Welsh names →Reese — common questions
Is Reese a boy or girl name?
Reese is a unisex name — it is given to boys and girls alike, and we list it that way (Welsh origin).
What does the name Reese mean?
Reese means “ardor, enthusiasm” of Welsh origin. Reese is Welsh — Rhys, "ardor, enthusiasm, fiery warrior" — an ancient Welsh king-name that America respelled phonetically and Reese Witherspoon carried to the top of the marquee.
Where does the name Reese come from?
Reese is Welsh in origin. Reese holds American top-200 use for girls with steady boy use — the rare truly bidirectional name.
How popular is Reese?
Reese ranked #192 in US Social Security Administration data for 2025, which makes it familiar without being crowded.
Bring the name into the room
A couple of nice things named Reese you might want for the nursery.