Emrys is a Welsh masculine given name, derived from the Welsh word "emrys" meaning "great". It was the name of one of the legendary Welsh bards and is also found in Arthurian legend as the name of Merlin's father. In English-speaking countries, Emrys gained popularity during the late 20th century, likely due to its association with the legendary figure Merlin, who plays a significant role in the works of T.H. White and Mary Stewart. The name has been used sparingly but consistently throughout history, offering parents seeking a unique yet meaningful name an interesting option.
The name Emrys experienced a significant increase in popularity over the given period, with births peaking at 39 in 2021 and totaling 268 across the years 2010 to 2023.