Oswald

boyOld EnglishChristian

Oswald is a Christian boy name of Old English origin, meaning “Divine power”.

MeaningDivine power
GenderBoy
OriginOld English
PronunciationOZ-wald
TraditionChristian, Modern & Classic
Used inUnited Kingdom, Germany

Meaning and origin of Oswald

Oswald joins Old English os, 'god', and weald, 'power' or 'rule'. Its most important bearer was Saint Oswald, the seventh-century Christian king of Northumbria, who invited Saint Aidan to found the monastery of Lindisfarne and died in battle in 642. The name was common in medieval England and was revived in the nineteenth century. It is now rare.

Is Oswald a Christian name?

Oswald is venerated as an Anglo-Saxon saint and martyr in Catholic, Orthodox and Anglican traditions.

How popular is Oswald?

Rare today in English-speaking countries; Osvaldo remains used in Latin America.

Gifts with the name Oswald

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Spellings and variants of Oswald

OsvaldoOswaldoOzzie

Names similar to Oswald

More Christian boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Oswald mean?

Oswald means 'Divine power'. It is of Old English origin.

Is Oswald a Christian name?

Oswald is venerated as an Anglo-Saxon saint and martyr in Catholic, Orthodox and Anglican traditions.

How do you pronounce Oswald?

Oswald is pronounced OZ-wald.

Is Oswald a boy or girl name?

Oswald is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.