“Though typically a male name, Owen has been adopted for females in modern usage”
Wales origin · Boy name
♂ 100% boys♀ 0% girls
#20US 2023
8kBirths / yr
→Stable
205.8kAll-time births
📅 Since 1880🏆 19 years in top 1000.52% of births at peak
How to pronounce Owen
OW·AN
/ˈaʊ.ˈæn/ · stress on OW · 2 syllables
“Though typically a male name, Owen has been adopted for females in modern usage”
Wales origin · Boy name
What does Owen mean and where does it come from?
Though typically a male name, Owen has been adopted for females in modern usage. The name has Celtic origins, common in Welsh histories and notable figures, such as Owen Glyndwr, the last sovereign Prince of Wales. Its popularity has risen in recent years for both genders, reflecting traditional val
Cultural significance
Owen has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Wales-speaking communities, where it reflects values of welsh.
Holding steady — currently #20 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#20 · Top 0.01%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#20
8,011
▼ down 2 · -7% births
2022
#18
8,584
▲ up 4 · -2% births
2021
#22
8,768
stable · +2% births
2020
#22
8,623
▲ up 14 · -10% births
2015
#36
9,596
▲ up 11 · +17% births
2010
#47
8,175
▲ up 13 · +14% births
2005
#60
7,167
▲ up 84 · +164% births
2000
#144
2,714
▲ up 206 · +288% births
1995
#350
700
▲ up 103 · +46% births
1990
#453
479
▼ down 31 · +16% births
1985
#422
413
▲ up 19 · +17% births
1980
#441
353
▲ up 27 · +19% births
1975
#468
297
▲ up 56 · +25% births
1970
#524
238
▼ down 53 · -12% births
1965
#471
272
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Owen
2022Rank #18
9,596
#251
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Owen
Owen has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #21 in 2019. More than 205,779 babies have been named Owen since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #169 in 1880 to #20 in 2023. Owen is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Owen means "Welsh" — a name rooted in Wales tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Owen?
Owen is currently ranked #20 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Owen?
Owen originates from Wales tradition. Wales names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Owen?
Owen is a two-syllable name pronounced AW1 AE1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Owen more of a girl or boy name?
Owen is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Owen
For a sister
Owen & Rhayna♡
Owen & Rhiannah♡
Owen & Brenin♡
Owen & Ceridwen♡
For a brother
Owen & dylan♡
Owen & Evan♡
Owen & Brecon♡
Owen & Emryck♡
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