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Name Owen

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Owen, a strong and classic name with deep Welsh roots, has enjoyed enduring popularity across the globe. This article explores the meaning, history, popularity, and notable figures associated with this distinguished name.

Meaning of the Name Owen

Owen is said to be a 'well-born' or 'youthful'
Owen is said to be a ‘well-born’ or ‘youthful’

Owen is derived from the Welsh name Owain. The precise etymology of Owain is debated, but the most widely accepted theory connects it to the Proto-Celtic Eugenos, meaning “well-born,” “noble,” or “youthful.” This noble connotation has contributed significantly to the name’s enduring appeal. Another possible origin is from the Welsh word “oen” meaning lamb.

Popularity of the Name

The name Owen is a popular baby’s name not only in Wales but also in England. According to the lastest goverment statistics in 2023, Owen was the 86st most popular name in Wales and the 140th in England and Wales. Making Owen one of the few Welsh boy’s names popular in both countries.

Owen is a consistently popular name, not only in Wales but also in other parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries.

  • Wales: Owen remains a popular choice for boys in Wales, reflecting its strong cultural heritage.
  • United Kingdom: While specific data for Wales alone can be difficult to isolate, Owen consistently ranks highly in England and Wales combined.
  • Global Popularity: Owen’s appeal extends beyond the UK, with notable usage in countries like the United States, Australia, and Canada. This international popularity can be attributed to its classic sound and positive connotations.

Famous People with the Name Owen

Here is a list of a few famous people / celebrities with the name Owen:

  • Owen Wilson (born 1968): A prominent American actor known for his roles in numerous Hollywood films, including “Wedding Crashers,” “Zoolander,” and the “Cars” franchise. His comedic timing and laid-back persona have made him a popular figure in the entertainment industry.
  • Owen Hargreaves (born 1981): A former professional footballer who played for prominent clubs like Bayern Munich and Manchester United, as well as the England national team. His successful career in professional football has contributed to the name’s recognition in the sporting world.
  • Owen Hart (1965-1999): A Canadian professional wrestler who was a member of the renowned Hart wrestling family. His career in professional wrestling brought the name into the spotlight for many fans of the sport.

Summary

The name Owen carries a rich tapestry of meaning and history. From its noble origins in Welsh royalty and mythology to its continued popularity in modern times, Owen stands as a strong and classic choice. Its association with historical figures, athletes, and entertainers has cemented its place in popular culture. For parents seeking a name with heritage, strength, and enduring appeal, Owen remains a timeless and distinguished option.

If you are looking for a baby’s name see our 10 most popular Welsh boys names and our list of Welsh boy’s names.

Morgan

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The Boy’s Name Morgan

The boy’s name Morgan is a popular name in Wales and also across the the globe. In Wales, it is common to hear Morgan both as a first name and also as a surname.

The name Morgan has a close association with the sea
The name Morgan has a close association with the sea

The name Morgan is also found in the Welsh place, Morgannwg (the county of Glamorgan in English).

Origin and Meaning of the Name Morgan

The name Morgan is generally interpreted to mean “sea-born,” “sea-circle,” or “sea-defender.” These meanings reflect Wales’ strong connection to the sea and maritime traditions.

Morgan is a traditional Welsh name with ancient Celtic roots. It’s derived from the Old Welsh elements “mor” meaning “sea” and “cant” meaning “circle” or “complete,” though some sources suggest it may also be related to “mor” (sea) and “gen” (born).

Another meaning of the name Morgan is broken down into two words, M^or (which means sea in Welsh) and Mawr (which means big (or bright) in Welsh).

Popularity

Morgan has enjoyed widespread popularity both as a given name and surname, not only in Wales but throughout the English-speaking world. It’s notable for its use as both a male and female name, though traditionally it was more common for boys in Wales. In recent decades, it has become increasingly popular as a girl’s name in some countries, particularly the United States.

In 2021, Morgan was the 88th most popular boys name in Wales according to the ONS.

Famous People with the Name Morgan

Here are a few examples of famous people who have the name Morgan:

  1. Morgan le Fay: A powerful enchantress in Arthurian legend, often portrayed as King Arthur’s half-sister.
  2. Captain Henry Morgan (1635-1688): A Welsh privateer who later became the Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica. Captain Morgan has a popular Rum named after him.
  3. Rhodri Morgan – Was the 1st Minister in the National Assembly of Wales.
  4. Morgan Freeman (b. 1937): An acclaimed American actor known for his distinctive voice and numerous film roles.
  5. Morgan Tsvangirai (1952-2018): A Zimbabwean politician who served as Prime Minister of Zimbabwe.
  6. Morgan Lily (b. 1999): An American actress known for her roles in various films and TV series.

If you are interested in more Welsh names or are looking for a name for your baby you will find a lot of great information on our website.