Meaning and Origin

Owain is a traditional Welsh name with deep roots in Celtic history. It is derived from the Old Welsh name “Eugein” or “Ougein,” which itself comes from the Latin name “Eugenius,” meaning “well-born” or “noble.”

The name Owain is generally interpreted to mean “youth” or “young warrior.” Some sources also associate it with the concept of nobility, likely due to its connection to the Latin “Eugenius.”

Popularity

Owain has been a constantly popular name in Wales over the centuries and it can be found in our Top 10 Welsh Boy’s Names. Owen is a variant of the name Owain.

Owain has maintained steady popularity in Wales and other parts of the United Kingdom. While not as common outside these regions, it has seen occasional use in other English-speaking countries. In recent years, there has been a trend towards using traditional Celtic names, which may contribute to a modest increase in its usage.

In 2021, Owain was not in the top 100 baby boys names in Wales.

Famous People called Owain

The most famous person with the name Owain was Owain Glyndŵr. He was a Welsh leader and battled against the English on a number of occasions. He was also the last Welshman to hold the title of the ‘Prince of Wales’. He even featured in Shakespeare’s Henry IV play as Owen Glendower.

Famous People with the Name:

1. Owain Glyndŵr (c. 1359 – c. 1415): A Welsh ruler who led a lengthy uprising against English rule in Wales.
2. Owain Yeoman (b. 1978): A Welsh actor known for his roles in TV series such as “The Mentalist” and “Turn: Washington’s Spies.”
3. Owain Arthur (b. 1983): A Welsh stage and screen actor who has appeared in various theater productions and TV shows.
4. Owain Doull (b. 1993): A Welsh professional cyclist and Olympic gold medalist.

Summary

The name Owain carries a rich historical and cultural significance, particularly in Welsh heritage. Its association with youth, nobility, and warrior spirit continues to make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with strong Celtic roots.

If you are considering Owain as a baby’s name then see our list of Welsh boys names for other boys’ names and we also have some tools to help you choose a baby’s name.