Oswald: Name Meaning, Origin, and Popularity

Pronunciation: ohsw-ahld
Origin: Denmark
gender-male

Emmy Samtani

Emmy Samtani

Emmy is the founder of Kiindred and mother to 3 little ones. Over the last 4 years, she has worked with some of the most credible experts in the parenting space and is a keen contributor on all things parenthood.
Updated on Jun 12, 2025 · 1 min read
Region Origin: Northern Europe, Western Europe
Meaning: God

Oswald is a name of Germanic origin, derived from the Old High German name "Osvald," which is composed of the elements "os," meaning "god," and "wald," meaning "rule." Therefore, Oswald can be interpreted to mean "divine ruler" or "rule of God." This name has a rich history and cultural significance, particularly in English, German, and Scandinavian-speaking regions. In English history, Oswald was the name of a revered Anglo-Saxon king who ruled Northumbria in the 7th century. He was known for his efforts to spread Christianity in his kingdom and for his role in bringing the Celtic and Roman branches of Christianity together. Saint Oswald was later canonized and became a symbol of religious unity and strength. The name Oswald also gained popularity in Germany and Scandinavia, where it has been used by various rulers, nobles, and saints throughout history. In Germanic cultures, the name is associated with qualities such as leadership, strength, and divine protection. Today, Oswald remains a timeless and classic name that is still used in many English-speaking countries. It carries with it a sense of history, tradition, and nobility, making it a popular choice for parents looking for a strong and meaningful name for their child.

Oswald Name Popularity Data

chat-overall Oswald is currently #7326 in the popularity of the name rankings.
gender-female Boy: Oswald is currently #3200 on Kiindred Boy Names
chat-overall Australian: Oswald is currently #3702 on Kiindred Australian Names

Popularity Trend Chart

Source: Social Security Administration

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