Rhiannon

Rhiannon is a Welsh name commonly connected with an earlier Celtic form meaning “great queen.” She is a central figure in the medieval Welsh tales known as the Mabinogi, where her story includes marriage, separation, endurance, and a remarkable association with horses. The literary character is clear; more specific claims that she was a moon goddess or identical with another deity are less secure.

Fleetwood Mac’s song “Rhiannon” gives the name a separate musical association. Rhia is a straightforward short form, while the complete name has a flowing three-syllable shape in common English use. Rihanna looks similar but belongs to a different Arabic name family. Parents choosing Rhiannon may value its Welsh storytelling roots as much as its regal proposed meaning.