Surname · Welsh origin
Powell
Meaning
The surname Powell means Son of Hywel.
Origin
Welsh
Type
patronymic
The origin of the surname Powell
Powell comes from “ap Hywel,” “son of Hywel (eminent).”
What kind of surname is Powell?
Powell is a patronymic surname, derived from a father's or ancestor's given name. It belongs to the Welsh naming tradition — you can read how Welsh surnames were formed on our Welsh last names page.
Other Welsh surnames
Other patronymic surnames
Family names formed the same way, from different cultures.
Frequently asked questions
What does the surname Powell mean?
The surname Powell means Son of Hywel. Powell comes from “ap Hywel,” “son of Hywel (eminent).”
Where does the surname Powell come from?
Powell is a surname of Welsh origin.
What kind of surname is Powell?
Powell is a patronymic surname, derived from a father's or ancestor's given name.
What are other Welsh surnames?
Other Welsh surnames include Bevan, Bowen, Griffiths, Lloyd, Maddox, Meredith.