Gareth

Gareth is a masculine given name of Welsh origin that has been used in Wales and across the English-speaking world since medieval times. It is traditionally associated with Welsh naming patterns and has remained a common choice in British and other English-speaking communities.

The precise etymology of Gareth is uncertain. It is commonly treated as a traditional Welsh name, and in Arthurian legend Gareth appears as a knight of the Round Table. In some tellings he is introduced under the epithet Beaumains before his knightly achievements are established.

In Arthurian legend Gareth is described as the youngest son of King Lot and Queen Anna, and a knight of the Round Table; in certain versions he is known as Beaumains, a disguise he uses as part of his early trials. The character's portrayal varies across medieval texts, contributing to Gareth’s enduring association with chivalry and knightly virtue in popular culture.

Notable people named Gareth include Gareth Bale, a Welsh footballer who has played for clubs such as Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur; Gareth Southgate, an English football manager and former player; Gareth Gates, an English singer who gained fame on talent shows; Gareth Edwards, a film director known for works such as Godzilla (2014) and other projects; and Gareth Evans, an Australian film director recognized for action cinema. The name is also used by figures in other fields, including sports and the arts.

In fiction, Gareth Keenan is a character in the UK version of the television series The Office. The name Gareth appears in various novels, films, and games, often chosen to evoke a contemporary or Welsh heritage.