Arthur: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced AHR-ther · 2 syllables
Arthur means “bear; noble”, from Welsh and Celtic.
From the name of the legendary king, from Middle English Arthure, from Medieval Latin Arthurus, probably from Middle Welsh arth (“bear”). Other suggestions include Old Welsh arth (“bear”) and ur (“man”), or a Latinized (Romano-British) name; compare Latin Artorius, itself possibly of Etruscan origin, or more likely Messapic-Illyrian related to Proto-Albanian *artsa (“bear”).
- Meaning
- bear; noble
- Origin
- Welsh, Celtic
- Pronunciation
- AHR-ther
- US rank (2025)
- #87
- US babies a year
- about 3,043 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 1880
- Style
- Vintage, Comeback, Rising, Classic
- Nicknames
- Art, Artie
How popular is Arthur?
Arthur was the #87 name in the US in 2025, given to 3,847 babies. It’s rising: up 193% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 1880.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #87 |
| England & Wales | #3 |
| Scotland | #31 |
| Northern Ireland | #21 |
| Ireland | #60 |
| France | #6 |
| Norway | #83 |
| Canada | #15 |
| Australia | #19 |
How old are people named Arthur?
Half of US adults named Arthur are older than 67; most are between 29 and 88. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Sibling names for Arthur
Names that real brothers and sisters of people named Arthur have, from family records on Wikidata, most common first.
Names like Arthur
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
Questions about Arthur
What does the name Arthur mean?
Arthur means “bear; noble”. It comes from Welsh and Celtic.
How do you pronounce Arthur?
Arthur is pronounced AHR-ther.
How popular is the name Arthur?
Arthur was the #87 name in the US in 2025, given to 3,847 babies. It’s rising: up 193% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 1880.
How old are people named Arthur?
Half of US adults named Arthur are older than 67. Most are between 29 and 88.