Skip Ancestry main menu Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Explore
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading
  • Family History Learning Hub
  • My Trees
  • Family Trees Support
  • Surnames
  • Individual Records Search
  • Historical Insights
  • Start a New Tree
  • Upload a GEDCOM
Loading
  • All Collections
  • Census & Voter Lists
  • Birth, Marriage & Death
  • Military
  • Immigration & Travel
  • Public Member Trees
  • Card Catalog
  • Member Search
Memories
Loading
  • AncestryDNA®
  • Register a Kit
  • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
  • DNA & You
  • Traits Learning Hub
  • Ancestry DNA Support
Loading
  • Support Center
  • Ancestry Academy
  • Community
  • Hire an Expert
  • Site Status
Loading
  • Genealogy 101
  • Fact Finding
  • DNA & You
  • Perspectives
  • Customer Stories
  • Ancestry Presents
  • Create & Connect
  • Ancestry Blog
Loading
  • Support Center
  • Ancestry Academy
  • Community
  • Hire an Expert
  • Site Status
  • Support Center
  • Ancestry Blog
  • Site Map
  • Gift Memberships
  • Careers
  • © 1997-2024 Ancestry
  • Corporate Information
  • Privacy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • CCPA Notice at Collection
  • Do not sell or share my personal information
  • Patent

Meaning of the first name
Arthur

Origin 
Welsh

Meaning 
Bear

Variations 
Arturo, Mathura, Aether

*Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.

The name Arthur has its roots in Welsh culture, derived from the ancient Celtic language. The meaning of Arthur is linked to the word for bear, representing strength and courage, characteristics often associated with this mighty animal. This etymology reflects the significance and prominence of the name throughout history and its enduring popularity in modern times. In historical accounts, the name Arthur is most famously associated with King Arthur, the legendary British ruler who led the defense against Saxon invaders in the 5th and 6th centuries. King Arthur's feats of heroism and his knights of the Round Table have captured the imagination of generations, making his name synonymous with chivalry and bravery. In contemporary usage, the name Arthur maintains its timeless appeal. It continues to be a popular choice for boys, conveying a sense of strength and nobility. Its associations with history and mythology have added richness and depth to its usage. In addition to its cultural significance, the name Arthur has also been embraced by popular culture, with notable figures like Arthur Miller, the renowned playwright, and Arthur Conan Doyle, the famous author of Sherlock Holmes, elevating its reputation. Overall, the name Arthur has firmly established itself as a name of distinction, carrying the symbolism of the bear and embodying qualities of courage and valor since its origins in the Welsh language.

Based on our records...
These are the most common surnames, spouse names, and child names associated with Arthur.
Smith

is the most common surname for Arthur.

Mary

is the most common spouse name for Arthur.

Arthur

is the most common child name for Arthur.

Start your curiosity engines.
Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
Free Trial
Order Ancestry
did_you_know_bar
Based on our records...
Did you know?
1900 is when there were the most people born with the first name Arthur.

We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

Explore the origins of another name.