The name Rockwell is an English given name with its origins dating back to the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Old English words "rocc" meaning "rock" and "well" meaning "spring" or "stream." The combination of these words suggests that the name may have been originally used to describe someone who lived near a rocky stream or spring.

In the early 13th century, the name Rockwell was recorded in various English historical records, indicating its usage during that time period. One of the earliest documented instances of the name can be found in the Pipe Rolls of Gloucestershire from 1221, where a person named "Rokewelle" was listed.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Rockwell. One of the earliest was Rockwell Kent (1882-1971), an American painter, illustrator, and writer known for his works depicting the rugged landscapes of Newfoundland and Alaska. He was also a popular book illustrator and produced the illustrations for various classic works such as Moby Dick and Candide.

Another famous bearer of the name was Norman Rockwell (1894-1978), the renowned American painter and illustrator renowned for his depictions of everyday life in the United States. His works graced the covers of The Saturday Evening Post magazine for nearly five decades, capturing the essence of American culture and values. Rockwell's paintings, such as "The Runaway" and "The Problem We All Live With," have become iconic representations of American art.

In the field of science, Lewis Rockwell (1890-1976) was a prominent American metallurgist who developed the Rockwell hardness test, a widely used method for measuring the hardness of materials. This test became an essential tool in various industries, including manufacturing and construction.

The name Rockwell also appears in religious and literary contexts. In the Book of Mormon, a sacred text of the Latter-day Saint movement, a character named Rockwell is mentioned as one of the sons of Nephi. Additionally, in the novel "The Call of the Wild" by Jack London, one of the characters is a dog named Rockwell.

Other notable individuals with the name Rockwell include Rockwell Kent Potter (1851-1928), an American painter and printmaker; Rockwell Kent Rowell (1927-2008), an American politician and businessman; and Rockwell Carey (1874-1951), an American actor and film director during the silent film era.