Rice: a male name of Welsh origin meaning "It is a popular Welsh given name, which is famous in Welsh history".It derives from the Welsh word "Rīs".
Rice has maintained its appeal as a masculine name in modern times while preserving its Welsh roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "It is a popular Welsh given name, which is famous in Welsh history" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Rice
Quick facts about Rice
Origin
Welsh
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
It is a popular Welsh given name, which is famous in Welsh history. The name is also used as a surname. Anglicized forms of the name include Rice, Rees, Reese, and Reece. Rhys ap Tewdwr was a king of Deheubarth in Wales and a member of the Dinefwr dynasty, and a branch descended from Rhodri the Great. Rhys ap Gruffydd was the ruler of the kingdom of Deheubarth in South Wales from 1155 to 1197. Today, he is commonly known as Lord Rhys, in Welsh Yr Arglwydd Rhys, although this title may not have been used in his lifetime.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Rīs
How to Pronounce Rice
Rice is pronounced /raɪs/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ric-e
Say it like: "RAEEHS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Rice is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
english
Frequently Asked Questions About Rice
What does the name Rice mean?
Rice means "It is a popular Welsh given name, which is famous in Welsh history. The name is also used as a surname. Anglicized forms of the name include Rice, Rees, Reese, and Reece. Rhys ap Tewdwr was a king of Deheubarth in Wales and a member of the Dinefwr dynasty, and a branch descended from Rhodri the Great. Rhys ap Gruffydd was the ruler of the kingdom of Deheubarth in South Wales from 1155 to 1197. Today, he is commonly known as Lord Rhys, in Welsh Yr Arglwydd Rhys, although this title may not have been used in his lifetime.". The name comes from Rīs. This welsh name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Rice for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "It is a popular Welsh given name, which is famous in Welsh history. The name is also used as a surname. Anglicized forms of the name include Rice, Rees, Reese, and Reece. Rhys ap Tewdwr was a king of Deheubarth in Wales and a member of the Dinefwr dynasty, and a branch descended from Rhodri the Great. Rhys ap Gruffydd was the ruler of the kingdom of Deheubarth in South Wales from 1155 to 1197. Today, he is commonly known as Lord Rhys, in Welsh Yr Arglwydd Rhys, although this title may not have been used in his lifetime." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Rice's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Rice?
Rice is a welsh name. The name traces back to Rīs. The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The welsh meaning "It is a popular Welsh given name, which is famous in Welsh history. The name is also used as a surname. Anglicized forms of the name include Rice, Rees, Reese, and Reece. Rhys ap Tewdwr was a king of Deheubarth in Wales and a member of the Dinefwr dynasty, and a branch descended from Rhodri the Great. Rhys ap Gruffydd was the ruler of the kingdom of Deheubarth in South Wales from 1155 to 1197. Today, he is commonly known as Lord Rhys, in Welsh Yr Arglwydd Rhys, although this title may not have been used in his lifetime." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Rice a boy or girl name?
Rice is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In welsh tradition, Rice has historically been given to boys. The meaning "It is a popular Welsh given name, which is famous in Welsh history. The name is also used as a surname. Anglicized forms of the name include Rice, Rees, Reese, and Reece. Rhys ap Tewdwr was a king of Deheubarth in Wales and a member of the Dinefwr dynasty, and a branch descended from Rhodri the Great. Rhys ap Gruffydd was the ruler of the kingdom of Deheubarth in South Wales from 1155 to 1197. Today, he is commonly known as Lord Rhys, in Welsh Yr Arglwydd Rhys, although this title may not have been used in his lifetime." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Rice?
Rice is pronounced "/raɪs/". This pronunciation follows cy language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Rice is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with welsh names, listening to a native speaker say Rice can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name.
How popular is the name Rice?
Rice is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Rice offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Rice's popularity may vary between welsh communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "It is a popular Welsh given name, which is famous in Welsh history. The name is also used as a surname. Anglicized forms of the name include Rice, Rees, Reese, and Reece. Rhys ap Tewdwr was a king of Deheubarth in Wales and a member of the Dinefwr dynasty, and a branch descended from Rhodri the Great. Rhys ap Gruffydd was the ruler of the kingdom of Deheubarth in South Wales from 1155 to 1197. Today, he is commonly known as Lord Rhys, in Welsh Yr Arglwydd Rhys, although this title may not have been used in his lifetime." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Rice holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Rice commonly used?
Rice is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though welsh in origin, Rice found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "It is a popular Welsh given name, which is famous in Welsh history. The name is also used as a surname. Anglicized forms of the name include Rice, Rees, Reese, and Reece. Rhys ap Tewdwr was a king of Deheubarth in Wales and a member of the Dinefwr dynasty, and a branch descended from Rhodri the Great. Rhys ap Gruffydd was the ruler of the kingdom of Deheubarth in South Wales from 1155 to 1197. Today, he is commonly known as Lord Rhys, in Welsh Yr Arglwydd Rhys, although this title may not have been used in his lifetime." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Rice into their naming traditions. A child named Rice will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Rice is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.