Sioned is a Welsh feminine given name, serving as the Welsh form of Janet. The name Janet itself is a medieval diminutive of Jane, which in turn derives from the Old French Jehanne, a feminine form of Iohannes (see John). Etymology and Origins The name Sioned follows a typical Welsh pattern of adapting English names through phonetic substitution, where the English 'J' is replaced with a Welsh 'Si-' sound (compare Siân for Jane). The ultimate origin traces back to the Hebrew name Yohanan, meaning "Yahweh is gracious." Notable Bearers Several contemporary Welsh women bear this name. Sioned Harries (born 1989) is a Welsh rugby union player who has represented Wales internationally. Sioned James (1974–2016) was a Welsh musician and choir conductor. Sioned Wiliam (born 1962) is a Welsh comedy producer and television executive. Sioned Williams is a Welsh politician serving in the Senedd (the Welsh Parliament). In fiction, Sioned is the name of the Sunrunner, a main character in Melanie Rawn's Dragon Prince and Dragon Star trilogies. The name also appears as the protagonist and narrator in Sioned, a novel by Sarah Winifred Parry (1870–1953). Cultural Significance and Usage Sioned remains a distinctly Welsh name, though it is less common than its English equivalents. In Wales, names like Sioned preserve the Welsh language heritage and are chosen to reflect regional identity. The name shares a phonetic resemblance with the unrelated name Sione, which is of Oceanic origin. Meaning: Diminutive of Jane, ultimately "Yahweh is gracious" Origin/Culture: Welsh (Welsh form of Janet) Type: First name, feminine Usage Regions: Primarily Wales, also Welsh diaspora communities