Rowan
Unisex nameIrish
✨ Meaning
Rowan has two origins that arrive at the same spelling. One is the Irish surname Ó Ruadháin, from 'ruadh,' meaning red, describing red hair. The other is the rowan tree, whose name comes from a Norse word and which was long planted near houses in Scotland and Ireland for protection. Both readings are current, and many parents choose it for the tree.
🌍 Origin
The rowan, also called the mountain ash, bears bright red berries and features in Scottish and Irish folk custom as a protective tree. The name moved into general use in the twentieth century and is used for boys and girls alike, particularly in Britain, Ireland and North America, making it one of the more balanced unisex options.
📈 Popularity Trend
⭐ Famous People Named Rowan
- Rowan Atkinson
- Rowan Blanchard
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What does Rowan mean?
Either 'little red one,' from the Irish surname Ó Ruadháin, or the rowan tree, whose name comes from Norse.
Is Rowan a boy's or a girl's name?
It is used for both across Britain, Ireland and North America and is among the more balanced unisex names.
What is a rowan tree?
A hardy tree with bright red berries, also called the mountain ash, traditionally planted near houses in Scotland and Ireland.