Origin and Meaning of Howell

Prominent, well-known

Origin: Welsh - Derived from the Welsh name Hywel, which itself comes from the Old Welsh word 'hugual,' meaning 'to be famous' or 'prominent.'

• Howell is often associated with the historical figure Hywel Dda, a king of Deheubarth in Wales who is noted for his codification of laws in the 10th century.
• The name Howell appears in various forms in Welsh culture, with Hywel being the most traditional form and common in Wales.
• Notable bearers of the name include Howell Raines, a prominent American journalist, and Howell Cobb, an American politician and soldier.
• Howell has seen fluctuating popularity; it has been more common in regions with Welsh heritage, particularly in the United States.
• Variations of the name include Hywel in Welsh and the surname Howell, which is often derived from the same root.