What does Reese mean and where does it come from?
The name Reese originates from the Welsh name 'Rice' which itself is derived from the Welsh word 'rhyse', meaning 'enthusiasm'. It became popular in English-speaking countries in the late 20th century. The name is often associated with a vibrant personality and warmth. Notable individuals with this
Cultural significance
Reese has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Welsh-speaking communities, where it reflects values of enthusiasm.
Peak popularity
Reached #128 in 2012 — currently #174 in the US.
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Related Reading
Welsh-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Reese?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Reese?
Reese works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Reese Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Reese Rose
Floral · soft ending
Reese Mae
Sweet · timeless
Reese Claire
French influence · crisp
Reese Jane
Literary · strong
Reese Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Reese right now?
Declining — down 6 spots — currently #174 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #174 | 1,666 | ▼ down 6 · -4% births |
| 2022 | #168 | 1,727 | ▼ down 20 · -9% births |
| 2021 | #148 | 1,890 | ▼ down 4 · +1% births |
| 2020 | #144 | 1,867 | ▲ up 28 · +1% births |
| 2015 | #172 | 1,857 | ▼ down 35 · -18% births |
| 2010 | #137 | 2,263 | ▲ up 100 · +60% births |
| 2005 | #237 | 1,413 | ▲ up 648 · +467% births |
| 2000 | #885 | 249 | ▲ up 10926 · +4050% births |
| 1995 | #11811 | 6 | — |
The story of Reese
Reese entered American naming records in 1924 and has been in use for over 100 years. A total of 53,652 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #11811 in 1995 to #174 in 2023. Reese is used for both genders: 68% female and 32% male.
Names that peaked alongside Reese in 2012:
Reese by decade
Reese peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 81 | |
| 1890s | 91 | |
| 1900s | 103 | |
| 1910s | 376 | |
| 1920s | 524 | |
| 1930s | 357 | |
| 1940s | 397 | |
| 1950s | 508 | |
| 1960s | 559 | |
| 1970s | 488 | |
| 1980s | 752 | |
| 1990s | 2,699 | |
| 2000s | 20,256 | |
| 2010s ★ | 24,260 | |
| 2020s | 2,201 | |
What are good nicknames for Reese?
What names sound and feel like Reese?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Reese also consider these
How is Reese written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Reese
What does the name Reese mean?
Reese means "Enthusiasm" — a name rooted in Welsh tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Reese?
Reese is currently ranked #174 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Reese?
Reese originates from Welsh tradition. Welsh names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Reese?
Reese is a one-syllable name pronounced R IY1 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Reese sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Reese flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Reese ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.