Cowen

Cowen is a surname of English origin. It is derived from the medieval given name "Colin", a diminutive form of Nicholas, which means "people's victory". The surname is predominantly found in the northern regions of England, particularly in Yorkshire and Lancashire.

The name Cowen has various spellings, including Cowan, Cowin, and Cohen. It is thought to have originated from the Gaelic MacEoghain clan in Ireland, known for their strong association with the surname.

Historically, individuals with the surname Cowen have been involved in various professions, such as farming, trade, and craftsmanship. The name has spread across the United Kingdom and beyond, with many Cowens immigrating to countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Notable individuals with the surname Cowen include Harold Cowen, a British musicologist known for his research on English composer Benjamin Britten, and Brian Cowen, a former Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland.

In modern times, the Cowen surname continues to be prominent in genealogy studies and family histories, reflecting the enduring legacy of this English surname.

There are approximately 3,318 people named Cowen in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,737th most common surname in Britain. Around 51 in a million people in Britain are named Cowen.

Surname type: From given name or forename

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • William

Female

  • Barbara
  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Jane
  • Karen
  • Lisa
  • Louise
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Valerie

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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