Odilon

Odilon is a masculine given name of French origin. It has appeared in French records since at least the 18th century and remains a relatively uncommon choice in modern times. The exact etymology of Odilon is not well established; it is often treated as a traditional or archaic name in Francophone contexts.

One of the most prominent bearers of the name is Odilon Redon (1840–1916), a French symbolist painter and printmaker. Redon is noted for dreamlike, fantastical imagery and his use of color and line to evoke mood rather than literal representation. He adopted Odilon as his professional name; his work contributed to the broader Symbolist movement and influenced later modern artists.

In contemporary contexts, the name Odilon is primarily encountered in historical records or in families of French origin. It may appear in literature or as a given name in francophone communities, but it is seldom chosen for newborns today.

Related names include Odile, a feminine form, and other names with similar phonetic patterns. The name Odilon thus remains a small but recognizable element of French onomastics, reflecting historical naming traditions.