An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

Any of an order (Strigiformes) of chiefly nocturnal birds of prey with a large head and eyes, short hooked bill, strong talons, and soft fluffy often brown-mottled plumage (Merriam-Webster.com).

Etymology (EN): Owl, from O.E. ule, from P.Gmc. *uwwalon (cf. Du. uil, O.H.G. uwila, Ger. Eule), a diminutive of root *uwwa, which is imitative of an owl’s hoot (cf. L. ulula “owl;” Gk. ololyzein “to cry aloud,” Skt. uluka- “owl.”

Etymology (PE): Buf “owl;” Mid.Pers. bûf “owl,” related to Av. bucahin- “he who is prone to howling,” buxti- “howling, hissing” (Pokorny); cf. Skt. bukk- “to bark, yelp;” Gk. buas “owl;” L. bubo “owl” (Fr. hibou); Arm. bou “owl.”
Joqd “owl,” probably related to jiq “shreak, clamour, cry.”