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Howell – Name Meaning

The name Howell is of Welsh origin and is derived from the Old Welsh personal name Hywel, which means “eminent” or “prominent”. It is also a variant of the English surname Howells, which was derived from the same source. The name Howell has been used as both a first name and a surname since the Middle Ages.

History and Origin

The name Howell dates back to the Middle Ages in Wales, where it was used as both a first name and a surname. It was derived from the Old Welsh personal name Hywel, which means “eminent” or “prominent”. The name was popularized by King Hywel Dda (Hywel the Good), who ruled Wales from 942 to 950 AD. He was known for his wise laws and justice system, which were written down in the Laws of Hywel Dda.

The name Howell became more widespread in England during the Norman Conquest of 1066. It was adopted by many families of Norman descent who settled in England after the conquest. The surname Howells is derived from this same source.

Symbolism

The name Howell symbolizes ambition, leadership, and strength. It is associated with wisdom and justice, due to its connection with King Hywel Dda. People with this name are often seen as natural leaders who are driven to succeed.

Nicknames

Common nicknames for people named Howell include Howie, Hoyle, and Howy.

Matching Names in Love and Friendship – Compatibility

People named Howell tend to be compatible with those who share similar traits such as ambition, leadership, and strength. They also get along well with people who have an appreciation for justice and fairness. Some good matches for people named Howell include names like Arthur, Henry, Owen, and William.

By Ava Isabella Hartley

Ava Isabella Hartley is a renowned expert in the field of onomastics, the study of names and their meanings, with a particular focus on baby names. She holds a Master's degree in Linguistics from the University of Cambridge and has over 15 years of experience in the study of etymology, name trends, and cultural naming practices.

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