Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Howell

      Origin 
      Welsh

      Meaning 
      Eminent

      Variations 
      Lowell, Powell, Phomello

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Howell is of Welsh origin and has a significant meaning attached to it. Derived from the Welsh word Hywel, it translates to eminent or eminent one. This name has a long history that dates back to ancient Wales and has continued to persist throughout different periods, making its mark in both history and modern-day usage.

      In historical contexts, the name Howell was particularly prominent during the Middle Ages, when Wales was an independent kingdom. A famous individual with this name was Hywel Dda, or Hywel the Good, who reigned as King of Wales from 900 to 950. Hywel Dda is remembered for his efforts in codifying and revising Welsh laws, contributing to the legal and cultural heritage of the Welsh people. The name Howell also appeared in various noble families of Wales, further establishing its significance throughout history.

      In modern times, the name Howell continues to be used as a first name, although it is less common. It has, however, gained popularity as a name, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States and Canada. It serves as a reminder of Welsh ancestry for many families who carry this name. Additionally, some individuals bearing the name Howell have achieved success and recognition in various fields, including academia, politics, and the arts, adding to the contemporary usage and relevance of the name.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Howell.
      Jones

      is the most common surname for Howell.

      Mary

      is the most common spouse name for Howell.

      Howell

      is the most common child name for Howell.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1906 is when there were the most people born with the first name Howell.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.