The Powell surname is a patronymic form of the Welsh name Hywel, meaning "son of Hywel." It has a rich history tracing back to a dynasty of kings in Wales and Brittany in the 9th and 10th centuries. Notable figures bearing the Powell surname include Adam Clayton Powell Sr. and Jr., influential ministers and politicians in the United States; Colin Powell, former United States Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; and Enoch Powell, a prominent British politician. The Powell name has also been associated with various fields such as arts, sports, science, and literature, with individuals like Alfred Hoare Powell, an English Arts and Crafts architect, and Cecil Frank Powell, a British physicist and Nobel laureate in physics. The impact of the Powell surname spans across different domains, making it a significant part of history and contemporary society.

The Powell Baronetcy is a notable title with a rich history, comprising seven creations in the Baronetage of England and the Baronetage of the United Kingdom. The extant Powell Baronetcy of Pengethly in Hereford was established in 1622 for Edward Powell, while the Powell Baronetcy of Birkenhead in Chester was created in 1629 for Thomas Powell. The Powell Baronetcy of Pengethly was re-established in 1661 for William Powell, and the Powell Baronetcy of Ewhurst was also created in the same year for Nathaniel Powell. Additionally, the Powell Baronetcy of Broadway in Carmarthen was formed in 1698 for Thomas Powell. In the Baronetage of the United Kingdom, the Powell Baronetcy of Horton Old Hall was established in 1892 for Francis Powell, and the Powell Baronetcy of Wimpole Street was created in 1897 for Richard Powell, who served as Physician-in-Ordinary to Queen Victoria, Edward VII, and George V. The family surname is pronounced "Poel". The lineage and history of the Powell baronets are documented in Debrett's Peerage and Baronetage.

Powell is a name that has been associated with various accomplished individuals throughout history. From Powell S. Barnett, a renowned U.S. musician and civil rights activist, to Powell Clayton, a distinguished U.S. soldier, politician, and businessman, the name has been carried by notable figures across different fields. Powell F. Carter Jr., a highly respected U.S. Navy admiral, and Powel Crosley Jr., a prominent U.S. entrepreneur, are among the individuals who have left a lasting impact. The artistic realm has also been graced by Powell Lloyd, a celebrated UK opera singer, and Powell St. John, a talented U.S. singer-songwriter. With their contributions, Powell Smythe, a 19th-century U.S. politician, and Powell Weaver, an accomplished U.S. musician, have added depth to the historical narrative. The name Powell encompasses a diverse range of achievements, making its mark in various domains, from music and politics to entrepreneurship and public service.