Powell

What does the baby name Powell mean? Learn about what Powell means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Powell - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Powell: P-O-W-E-L-L, is a 6-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Powell: POW-əl
Meaning of Powell: Son of howell, eminent or prominent, a welsh king.
Origin of Powell: The name 'Powell' can be traced back to Wales, where it originated as a patronymic surname. It was commonly used to indicate the son of Howell or Hywel, a popular Welsh given name. The use of patronymic surnames, where the father's name is used as a surname, was common in Wales during the medieval period. This practice allowed for clear identification of individuals within the community.

The earliest known use of the name 'Powell' dates back to the 12th century, during the time of the Norman Conquest. It was recorded as 'ap Hywel' or 'ap Howell', meaning 'son of Howell'. Over time, the prefix 'ap' was dropped, and the name evolved into 'Powell' as we know it today.; Celtic Names; Welsh Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Powell: Powal; Powall; Powel
Popularity of Powell: The popularity of the name 'Powell' has fluctuated over time. In Wales, it has remained relatively common, reflecting its deep roots in Welsh culture. However, outside of Wales, its usage has been more sporadic.

In the United States, the name 'Powell' gained some popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This can be attributed to the influx of Welsh immigrants during that time. However, it never reached the same level of popularity as more common surnames like Smith or Johnson.; Powell currently has no likes. Be the first to like this name.

Etymology of Powell

The etymology of the name 'Powell' can be traced back to the Welsh roots of the personal name Hywel. Hywel itself is derived from the Old Welsh word 'hyw', meaning 'eminent' or 'prominent'. This reflects the significance of the name 'Powell', as it carries the connotation of distinction and prominence.

Cultural Significance of Powell

While the name 'Powell' does not have any specific cultural or religious significance, it holds a strong connection to Welsh heritage. It represents a sense of pride in one's ancestry and a connection to the land and traditions of Wales. For individuals of Welsh descent, bearing the name 'Powell' can be a source of cultural identity and a reminder of their roots.