OWEN
Owen
Introduction
Owen is a popular Welsh surname of patronymic origin, meaning "son of Owen". It has historical significance as a name that is deeply rooted in Welsh culture and heritage.
Origin
The surname Owen originates from Wales, where it is derived from the personal name Owain, a name of ancient Celtic origin. Owain is a Welsh form of Eugene, which means "noble-born" or "well-born". The name has been used in Wales since medieval times and has been borne by several notable historical figures in Welsh history.
History
The surname Owen has a rich history in Wales, with the earliest recorded instances of the name dating back to the 11th century. The Owain family were powerful rulers in medieval Wales, with Owain Gwynedd being one of the most famous Welsh princes of the 12th century.
The surname Owen spread beyond Wales, particularly to England and other English-speaking countries, through migration and emigration. As a result, Owen is now a common surname in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Notable People
Several notable individuals have borne the surname Owen, including:
- Wilfred Owen (1893-1918) - A renowned English poet and soldier who is considered one of the leading poets of World War I.
- John Owen (1616-1683) - A prominent Welsh theologian and minister known for his influential religious writings.
- Laura Owen - A modern-day actress and human rights activist.
Variants
Variants of the surname Owen include Owens, Eoin (an Irish variant), and MacEwen (a Scottish variant). These variations reflect the diverse history and migration patterns of the Owen surname.
Legacy
The surname Owen continues to be a popular and esteemed surname, with many individuals proudly bearing the name as a symbol of their Welsh heritage. The name's legacy is preserved through the achievements and contributions of those who have carried the name throughout history.
In conclusion, the surname Owen is a significant and enduring part of Welsh and British history, symbolizing noble lineage and cultural heritage. Its rich legacy and widespread presence make it a celebrated and respected surname both in Wales and around the world.
There are approximately 69,666 people named Owen in the UK. That makes it the 90th most common surname in Britain. Around 1,070 in a million people in Britain are named Owen.
Surname type: From given name or forename
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Wales
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Welsh
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Christopher
- David
- Gareth
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Richard
- Robert
- William
Female
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Julie
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan