Maredudd is a Welsh masculine given name, the etymological source of the English name Meredith. The name derives from Old Welsh forms such as Margetud, likely composed of mawredd meaning "greatness, magnificence" and the element iudd meaning "lord". Thus, Maredudd can be interpreted as "great lord" or "magnificent lord," reflecting its noble connotations in medieval Welsh society. Etymology and Historical Usage In its original Welsh form, Maredudd (also spelled Meredydd) was well-attested throughout the Middle Ages, borne by numerous princes and rulers. The name's popularity in Wales continued for centuries, preserving its masculine identity. However, in English-speaking countries, the anglicized form Meredith gradually became unisex, and from the mid-1920s it has been used more often for girls than for boys—though Maredudd itself has maintained its masculine usage in Wales. A notable Welsh bearer is Maredudd ap Bleddyn (1047–1132), a king of Powys. Notable Bearers Medieval and early modern records list many figures named Maredudd. Maredudd ab Owain (died c. 999) was a king of Deheubarth, while Maredudd ab Owain Glyndŵr (fl. late 14th–early 15th centuries) participated in his father Owain Glyndŵr's revolt. Maredudd ap Gruffydd (1131–1155) was a prince of Deheubarth. Later, Maredudd ab Ieuan ap Robert (died 1525) served as a landed gentleman in Wales. The name also appears in literary contexts celebrating Welsh heritage. Related Forms The feminine form is usually Meredith, but a pet form of Maredudd is Bedo, which has evolved into English surnames such as Beddoe and Beddoes. The Old Welsh root Margetud represents the earliest known variant. Related cognates appear in Celtic onomastics, though the name is distinctive to Wales and the Welsh language. Cultural Significance Maredudd embodies the traditional Welsh practice of creating compound names with honorific elements. Its link to the element "iudd" (lord) places it among other Welsh names denoting nobility, such as Gruffudd and Ieuan. While less common today, the name endures as a strong masculine marker within Wales and reappears through genealogical research of medieval Welsh dynasties. Meaning: "great lord" or "magnificent lord" Origin: Old Welsh elements mawredd (greatness) + iudd (lord) Type: Given name, masculine Usage regions: Wales (medieval–present); related form Meredith common in English-speaking world