Mordred as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Mordred

What is the meaning of the name Mordred ?

The baby name Mordred is a unisex name 2 syllables long and is pronounced MOR-dred.

Mordred is Welsh in Origin.

Mordred is a name of Welsh origin, meaning "sea fortress." It is derived from the Welsh words mor meaning "sea" and dre meaning "fortress." In Arthurian legend, Mordred is infamously known as the illegitimate son of King Arthur and his half-sister Morgause. He is often portrayed as a villain whose betrayal leads to King Arthur's downfall and the collapse of Camelot. This association solidified Mordred's image as a symbol of treachery and destruction in Western mythology.

Over time, the name Mordred has become even more closely linked to evil and betrayal. It is frequently used in fantasy fiction to represent dark, villainous characters. Its usage in literature and popular culture, including the works of Alfred Lord Tennyson, Mark Twain, and modern fantasy authors, reinforces its sinister reputation.  It would be very cruel or twisted parents that name their child Mordred these days!

Despite these connotations, the name retains an air of strength and power due to its etymology, evoking the imagery of fortresses and resilience. Mordred is primarily considered a masculine name, pronounced MOR-dred emphasizing the first syllable. However, it could be adapted for any gender.

The name Mordred continues to hold appeal for those drawn to its dramatic, storied history and its connection to Welsh cultural heritage. In modern times its association with treachery and villainy, especially in contemporary fantasy, has made it more commonly perceived as the name of an antagonist, carrying a dark and powerful mystique.