Owe is a Swedish given name and Ove variant, also used as a surname. It likely originates from the Old Danish name Aghi, a short form of names containing the Old Norse element egg meaning "edge of a sword" or agi meaning "awe, fear." Variants include Norwegian Ove, Frisian Age and Aike, Low German Eike, and German Uwe and Egon. As a Swedish given name, Owe was most popular in the mid-20th century and remains in occasional use. Notable bearers include cyclist Owe Adamson (b. 1935), Olympic competitor; Owe Jonsson (1940–1962), a versatile sprinter, ice hockey and bandy player; Owe Thörnqvist (b. 1929), a celebrated troubadour and revue artist; football player and manager Owe Ohlsson (b. 1938); and politician Owe Hellberg (b. 1953). In the surname context, actor Baard Owe (1936–2017), born in Norway, carried the name. Etymology and History As a variant of Ove, Owe traces back to early Scandinavian naming traditions. The underlying Old Norse elements egg ("sword's edge") and agi ("awe, fear") underscore the masculine and martial connotations common in Viking-era name formation. The adaptability of Ove/Owe across Germanic and Nordic languages—whether as Frisian Aike or German Uwe—reflects its historical spread through trade and migration. Cultural Significance In Sweden, Owe carries the understated, straightforward appeal typical of Nordic two-syllable names. Its usage declined after the 1960s but enjoys minor revival with the resurgence of vintage names. While not commonly used outside Scandinavia, similar forms like Uwe (Germany) remain familiar, and notable figures in sports and entertainment ensure the name retains recognition. Meaning: Edge of a sword or awe/fear (from Old Norse elements) Origin: Old Danish, through Old Norse Type: Given name and surname Usage Nations: Primarily Sweden; variations exist in Norway, Germany, Frisia, and Low German regions