wes

Wes is a masculine given name, commonly used as a diminutive form of Wesley. In English-speaking countries it is often used informally, and some people are named Wes as their full given name.

Etymology: The name Wesley comes from Old English elements meaning “west” and “leah” (clearing or meadow). The shortened form Wes developed as a nickname and has become established in its own right.

Notable people named Wes include several figures across arts, sports, and entertainment. Wes Anderson (born 1969) is an American filmmaker known for The Royal Tenenbaums and Moonrise Kingdom. Wes Craven (1939–2015) was an American director celebrated for horror classics such as A Nightmare on Elm Street and Scream. Wes Montgomery (1923–1968) was an influential American jazz guitarist. Wes Studi (born 1947) is a Cherokee American actor recognized for Dances with Wolves and Avatar. Wes Welker (born 1980) is a former American football wide receiver. Wes Bentley (born 1978) is an American actor noted for roles in American Beauty and Thin Ice.

In other uses, WES (capitalized) is an acronym for organizations such as World Education Services, which provides credential evaluation for international students and immigrants. The name Wes is also found in fictional works and regional name spellings, but it most frequently appears as a personal given name in English-speaking contexts.