Olwen

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

Olwen - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Olwen: O-L-W-E-N, is a 5-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Olwen: OHL wen
Meaning of Olwen: Mythical daughter of yspaddaden, white footprints, white track, white footprint.
Origin of Olwen: The name 'Olwen' has its origins in Welsh mythology. It is derived from two Welsh words, 'ol' meaning 'footprint' or 'track', and 'gwen' meaning 'white' or 'fair'. Therefore, the name 'Olwen' can be interpreted as 'white footprint' or 'fair track'. In Welsh mythology, 'Olwen' was a beautiful maiden associated with flowers, and her name is often associated with purity and innocence.; Celtic Names; Mythological Names; Welsh Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Olwen: Olvyen; Olwenn; Olwin; Olwyn; Olwyne
Popularity of Olwen: While 'Olwen' may not be a commonly heard name today, it has a rich history. In terms of popularity, 'Olwen' experienced a notable spike in usage during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This can be attributed to the revival of interest in Welsh mythology and folklore during that time. However, since then, the name has become less common, making it a unique choice for parents seeking a name with a touch of enchantment.; Olwen currently has 9 likes, and is in the top 10% of liked girl's names. The name Taniya is slightly more popular than Olwen.

Etymology of Olwen

The linguistic roots of the name 'Olwen' can be traced back to the Welsh language. As mentioned earlier, 'ol' means 'footprint' or 'track', while 'gwen' means 'white' or 'fair'. The combination of these two elements results in a name that evokes imagery of purity and grace. It is a name that carries a sense of delicacy and elegance.

Cultural Significance of Olwen

In Welsh culture, the name 'Olwen' holds a special place. It is often associated with the beauty of nature, particularly flowers. 'Olwen' is said to have been the daughter of a giant, and her name is often used to symbolize the delicate yet resilient nature of flowers. In Welsh folklore, she is depicted as a symbol of hope and new beginnings, representing the beauty that can emerge even in the harshest of environments.