Olwen

/OL-wen/

WelshGirl

Olwen is a Welsh girl's name pronounced /OL-wen/. A mythological name meaning white footprint, belonging to a princess so gentle that flowers grew wherever she stepped.

Meaning of Olwen

A mythological name meaning white footprint, belonging to a princess so gentle that flowers grew wherever she stepped.

Olwen is a Welsh name derived from the elements 'ol' meaning track or footprint and 'gwen' meaning white, fair, or blessed. In the Mabinogion, she is a princess who is so delicate and pure that white trefoils spring up in the wake of her footsteps.

Origin
Welsh
Pronunciation
/OL-wen/

Cultural background

While deeply rooted in Welsh folklore, the name remains a classic choice in Wales and is occasionally used in other English-speaking countries seeking a vintage, ethereal quality.

Variations & nicknames

  • Olwyn
  • Olwenne
  • Olwin
  • Olwenn

Famous people named Olwen

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Olwen Fouéré

    Acclaimed Irish stage and film actress and director.

    Film · 1970s–present

  • Olwen Brogan

    British archaeologist and authority on Roman Libya.

    Science · 1900–1989

  • Olwen Wymark

    American-born playwright known for her work in British theatre.

    Literature · 1950s–2013

  • Olwen Thorne

    Fictional protagonist in the novel 'The Owl Service' by Alan Garner.

    Literature · 1967

  • Olwen Catherine Kelly

    Irish model and actress known for 'The Autopsy of Jane Doe'.

    Film · 2010s–present

Frequently asked about Olwen

What does Olwen mean?
Olwen means 'white footprint' or 'blessed track', referring to the white flowers that grew wherever the mythological princess stepped.
How do you pronounce Olwen?
It is pronounced OL-wen, with the emphasis on the first syllable.
Is Olwen a boy or girl name?
Olwen is traditionally a girl's name of Welsh origin.
Who was Olwen in mythology?
She was the daughter of the giant Ysbaddaden in the Welsh tale 'Culhwch and Olwen', one of the oldest stories in the Mabinogion.

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