oswald

Oswald is a masculine given name of English origin, derived from Old English elements meaning "god" and "ruler." The name has appeared since early medieval times and is associated with Saint Oswald, a 7th-century king of Northumbria who was venerated as a saint after his death. Because of this heritage, Oswald has been a longstanding name in English-speaking countries and has since spread to other languages and cultures.

Notable bearers of the given name include Saint Oswald of Northumbria (d. 642), Oswald Chambers (1874–1917), Oswald Mosley (1896–1980), Oswald Spengler (1880–1936), and Oswald Avery (1877–1955).

In fiction and popular culture, Oswald appears as Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, an early animated character created by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, and as Oswald Cobblepot, the Penguin in the Batman franchise.