Rhian is a feminine given name of Welsh origin, derived from the Welsh word rhiain meaning "maiden" or "young woman". The name is pronounced "REE-ən" in English. In Welsh tradition, the name is associated with maidenhood and youth. A rarer masculine usage exists, possibly as a variant of Ryan or based on alternate roots the first deriving from rix. the Celtic element for "king", and the second from an older form meaning "maiden, virgin".EtymologyThe standard etymology links Rhian to rhiain, "maiden". However, historical interpretations have also connected it to a root meaning "king," showing divergence from its modern sense.Notable BearersA saint bears the name.. Notable bearers include musicians Rhian Benson (British singer) and Rhian Samuel (Welsh composer), athletes such as Australian soccer player Rhian Davies, English darts player Rhian Edwards, Olympic footballer Rhian Wilkinson, as well as model and actress Rhian Ramos from Philippines, and Canadian medical researcher Rhian Touyz Further entries in sport are