Origin and Meaning of Welch

Foreigner, stranger

Origin: Old English - Derived from the Old English term 'wealh,' which means 'foreigner' or 'strange,' used to refer to the Celtic peoples of Britain.

• The surname Welch has historical roots linked to the Anglo-Saxon period, when the term was used as a descriptor for people from Wales.
• While predominantly a surname, Welch has also been adopted in some contexts as a given name, particularly in English-speaking countries.
• Notable bearers of the name include American filmmaker and actor, William Welch, and several regional politicians.
• In the United States, the surname Welch has been common since the 19th century and is often associated with families of Welsh descent.
• Variations of the name include Walsh, which has similar origins but specifically refers to a person from Wales.