Ozzy

What does Ozzy mean?

Ozzy is a lively English short form most closely associated with Oswald, an Old English name formed from elements meaning a god and power or rule. It gives Ozzy the inherited sense of divine strength or godly power.

With its bright sound and double-z spelling, Ozzy feels playful, bold and distinctly modern. It is familiar as a nickname but works confidently as a full given name, offering an informal, energetic alternative to longer traditional choices.

Historical Context

Ozzy developed in English as a familiar form of names beginning with Os, especially Oswald. Oswald was used in Anglo-Saxon England and combines the Old English elements ōs, meaning a god, and weald, meaning power or rule. Ozzy is now also used independently, rather than only as a nickname.

Popularity of Ozzy over time

In 2025, Ozzy was given to 264 boys in the UK and 548 boys in the US. Ozzy has risen sharply over the last 20 years, and is now a well-used boys' name in both the UK and the US.

What do parents think of Ozzy?