- Gender: Unisex (used for both boys and girls)
- Origin: Celtic, Gaelic, English
- Meaning: “Little red one” or “rowan tree”
- Pronunciation: ROH-an or ROW-an
Meaning of the Name Rowan
The name Rowan has beautiful Celtic roots and typically refers to the rowan tree, which has red berries and was considered magical in Celtic folklore. It literally means “little red one” or “red-haired,” making it a lovely choice for redheaded babies, though it’s given to children of all hair colors these days!
Historical Significance of Rowan
Rowan trees have been significant throughout Celtic and Norse mythology as protectors against evil spirits. The name carries this protective quality in its heritage. In ancient times, rowan wood was used to make walking sticks and cradles because of its believed protective properties. The tree’s striking red berries made it stand out in folklore as a symbol of courage and wisdom.
Common Nicknames for Rowan
- Ro
- Ro-Ro
- Rowey
- Row
- Rowie
- Wanie
- Roro
How Popular Is Rowan?
Rowan has been steadily climbing the popularity charts in recent years! In the US, it’s currently in the top 200 names for both boys and girls, with a particularly strong showing for boys. It’s been gaining more traction since the early 2000s as parents seek out nature-inspired names with a gender-neutral appeal. The name feels fresh yet established – not too common that your child will be one of five Rowans in class, but recognized enough that people won’t struggle to pronounce it.
Famous People Named Rowan
- Rowan Atkinson (British actor famous for “Mr. Bean” and “Blackadder”)
- Rowan Blanchard (American actress known for “Girl Meets World”)
- Rowan Williams (former Archbishop of Canterbury)
- Rowan Mayfair (though fictional, a well-known character from Anne Rice novels)
- Rowan Whitethorn (character from Sarah J. Maas novels)
Fictional Characters Named Rowan
- Rowan Whitethorn (from Sarah J. Maas’s “Throne of Glass” series)
- Rowan Mayfair (from Anne Rice’s “Lives of the Mayfair Witches”)
- Rowan Damisch (from Neal Shusterman’s “Scythe” series)
- Rowan Khanna (from “Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery” game)
- Rowan Blackwood (from “The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina”)
Rowan in Literature and Pop Culture
Rowan appears frequently in fantasy literature, often embodying strength, wisdom, and magical properties—much like the tree it’s named after. The rowan tree itself is featured in many Celtic tales and poems. In modern pop culture, the name has gained visibility through characters in popular book series and through celebrities choosing it for their children. The name gives off a magical, earthy vibe that resonates with fantasy fans and nature lovers alike.
Personality Traits Associated with Rowan
People named Rowan are often described as:
- Creative and artistic
- Independent thinkers
- Nature-loving and earthy
- Strong-willed yet gentle
- Intelligent and thoughtful
- Protective of loved ones
- Possessing natural leadership qualities
Remember, while these associations are fun to consider, each Rowan will develop their own unique personality!
Similar Names to Rowan
- For boys: Ronan, Roman, Owen, Roan, Keegan, Finn
- For girls: Rowena, Rowen, Wren, Willow, Autumn, Sage
- Unisex options: River, Robin, Remy, Reese, Riley
Alternate Spellings for Rowan
- Rowen
- Rohan (though this has separate Indian origins)
- Roann
- Rowin
- Rowun
- Rowynn
Pronunciation Variations Around the World
- American English: ROH-ən (emphasis on first syllable)
- British English: ROW-an (with a slightly rounded ‘o’)
- Irish: ROH-awn (slightly longer second syllable)
- Scottish: ROW-in (with a slight roll on the ‘r’)
- Australian: ROH-an (with a broader ‘o’ sound)
Parents Who Like Rowan Also Like
- Asher
- Silas
- Finn
- Jasper
- Willow
- Sage
- Juniper
- Briar
- Archer
- Hazel
Baby Name Lists That Include Rowan
- Nature-Inspired Names
- Unisex/Gender-Neutral Names
- Celtic and Gaelic Names
- Woodland-Themed Names
- Literary Character Names
- Short and Sweet Names
- Names with Magical Associations
- Modern Names with Ancient Roots
Rowan for Both Genders
Rowan is genuinely unisex and works beautifully for both boys and girls! For boys, it carries a strong, sturdy feel with its connection to the rowan tree. For girls, it offers a nature-inspired alternative to more traditionally feminine names while maintaining a gentle sound. The name’s ending doesn’t lean specifically masculine or feminine, which contributes to its versatility across genders.
Sibling Name Ideas
- For brothers: Finn, Liam, Owen, Jasper, Griffin, Elliot, Caleb, Ezra
- For sisters: Willow, Ivy, Sage, Wren, Hazel, Luna, Violet, Piper
- Gender-neutral siblings: River, Quinn, Avery, Morgan, Taylor, Riley
Names with the Same Meaning as Rowan
- Rufus (means “red-haired”)
- Rory (means “red king”)
- Rusty (reference to red color)
- Sorrel (type of reddish-brown)
- Phoenix (associated with red fire)
- Ember (red-hot coal)
First Impressions of Rowan
When people hear the name Rowan, they often think of:
- Nature and woodland settings
- Something unique but not bizarre
- A thoughtful, kind person
- Someone creative or artistic
- A balance of strength and sensitivity
- Someone who might love the outdoors
Celebrity Babies Named Rowan
- Rowan Atkinson named his daughter Lily Sastry (formerly Rowan)
- Brooke Shields has a daughter named Rowan Francis
- Actress Elisabeth Röhm named her daughter Easton August Anthony Wooster Rowan
- Singer Rod Stewart has a daughter named Ruby Rowan Stewart
Songs About Rowan
While there aren’t many mainstream songs specifically about the name Rowan, there are some indie folk songs that reference rowan trees and their mythology. The band The Decemberists often incorporates folkloric elements that mention rowan trees in their lyrics.
Famous Quotes About Rowan
Most quotes about “Rowan” reference the tree rather than the name directly:
“The rowan is the tree of power, making life and magic flower.” — Old Celtic saying
“Plant a rowan beside your door, and evil shall not enter in.” — Scottish folklore
Rowan in Different Languages
- Irish Gaelic: Ruadhán
- Welsh: Rhowana
- German: Rowena (feminine form)
- Spanish: Roano (though less common)
- French: Rouen (though this is also a place name)
- Japanese: ローワン (Rōwan)
Name Combinations for Rowan
- For girls: Rowan Elizabeth, Rowan Sophia, Rowan Claire, Rowan Olivia, Rowan Mae
- For boys: Rowan Alexander, Rowan James, Rowan Thomas, Rowan Elliott, Rowan Christopher
- Gender-neutral: Rowan Quinn, Rowan Avery, Rowan Taylor, Rowan Sage, Rowan River
Comments from Parents of Children Named Rowan
“We named our son Rowan because we wanted something that felt both strong and gentle. Five years in, it fits him perfectly! People always compliment his name.” — Sarah, mom to Rowan James
“Our daughter Rowan is 7 now, and she loves that her name comes from a magical tree. She’s already quite the nature enthusiast!” — Michael, dad to Rowan Emily
“We chose Rowan for our non-binary child and it’s been perfect—professional enough for job applications but unique enough to stand out.” — Jamie, parent to Rowan Taylor
“The only downside to naming our son Rowan is occasionally having to correct people who think it’s ‘Roman’ at first glance.” — Leo, dad to Rowan Alexander