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.
Peak popularity
Reached #21 in 2019 — currently #31 in the US.
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Related Reading
Wales-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Owen?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Owen?
Owen works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Owen Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Owen John
One syllable · timeless choice
Owen Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Owen Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Owen Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Owen Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Owen right now?
Holding steady — currently #31 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #31 | 7,190 | ▼ down 5 · -5% births |
| 2024 | #26 | 7,599 | ▼ down 6 · -5% births |
| 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 | — |
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.
Names that peaked alongside Owen in 2019:
Owen by decade
Owen peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 758 | |
| 1890s | 761 | |
| 1900s | 860 | |
| 1910s | 3,815 | |
| 1920s | 5,892 | |
| 1930s | 4,304 | |
| 1940s | 3,921 | |
| 1950s | 3,956 | |
| 1960s | 2,923 | |
| 1970s | 3,036 | |
| 1980s | 4,065 | |
| 1990s | 9,683 | |
| 2000s | 62,003 | |
| 2010s ★ | 91,154 | |
| 2020s | 23,491 | |
What are good nicknames for Owen?
What names sound and feel like Owen?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Owen also consider these
Common questions about the name Owen
What does the name Owen mean?
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 OW-AN. 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.