Dylan ail Don (Welsh pronunciation: [ˈdəlan ˈail ˈdɔn]) (in Middle Welsh) is a character in the Welsh mythic Mabinogion tales, particularly in the fourth tale, "Math fab Mathonwy". The story of Dylan reflects ancient Celtic myths that were handed down orally for some generations before being written down during the early Christian period by clerics.[1] The story as it has been preserved therefore exhibits elements and archetypes characteristic of both Celtic pagan and Christian mythologies. His name translates as "Dylan the Second Wave."
In some interpretations of legend, Dylan represents darkness while his twin brother Lleu Llaw Gyffes represents light.[2] But the more common interpretation is that Dylan is a Welsh sea-god. Dylan was killed by his uncle, and it has been said that "The clamour of the waves dashing upon the beach is the expression of their longing to avenge their son.[2]"
In Wales, Dylan is one of the most popular traditional Welsh names for boys.[3]