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Powhatan

Boy name · Native American

Meaningpossibly falls of the river · Powhatan

Powhatan is a Native American boy name thought to mean “falls of the river”, with Powhatan roots. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds flowing and melodic, it's a longer name that leaves plenty of room for nicknames, and it pairs well with a short middle name.

Did you know?

  • Scrabble scoreIf names were allowed in Scrabble, Powhatan would score 16 points, thanks largely to the W (worth 4).
Baby smiling up at the camera
hello, little Powhatan

Fewer than 5 US babies a year get this name, so SSA doesn't list it. That makes it truly rare.

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Popularity: U.S. Social Security Administration (babies with 5+ births per year).

About the name Powhatan

Powhatan is a boy name of Native American origin meaning “possibly falls of the river”. With 3 syllables it has a flowing, lyrical sound, and plenty of room for a nickname, so a short middle name balances it nicely. It's a rare choice in the US, so your child is unlikely to meet another Powhatan at school.

Origin:Native American names

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Questions about the name Powhatan

What does the name Powhatan mean?

Powhatan means “possibly falls of the river” and comes from Powhatan. Name experts don't fully agree on its roots, so this is the most likely meaning rather than a certainty. Names built around “river” have been loved for generations, and give a child a meaning worth sharing when someone asks about their name. Other boy names with a similar meaning include River (“river”), Kendall (“Kent River valley”), Wade (“river ford”) and Ford (“river crossing”).

What is the origin of the name Powhatan?

Powhatan is Native American in origin, and its meaning traces back to Powhatan. Other Native American names to consider are Kai (“sea”), Dakota (“friend, ally”), Mikah (“who is like God”) and Shayan (“worthy”).

Is Powhatan a boy or girl name?

Powhatan is a boy name.

What names are similar to Powhatan?

If you like Powhatan, you might also like River, Kendall, Wade and Ford.

What should I know before naming my baby Powhatan?

Powhatan is a Native American boy name thought to mean “falls of the river”, with Powhatan roots. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds flowing and melodic, it's a longer name that leaves plenty of room for nicknames, and it pairs well with a short middle name. Say it out loud with your last name and any middle names you're considering, and check the initials it makes.