Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Rowan

      Origin

      Irish

      Meaning

      Little Red One

      Variations

      Rowanne, Gowan, Jowan
      The name Rowan, originating from Irish roots, carries the meaning of Little Red One. Historically, it finds prominence in the ancient Gaelic culture of Ireland. In this context, the name Rowan is associated with the color red, symbolizing both passion and courage. It is believed to have been used to describe individuals with fiery red hair or a vibrant spirit. The significance of the name is further accentuated by the Celtic mythology, where the sacred rowan tree was thought to possess protective powers and was revered as a symbol of strength.

      Today, the name Rowan continues to resonate in modern-day usage, albeit with some variations. It is prevalent both as a masculine and feminine given name, emphasizing its gender inclusivity. The symbolic essence of the name, encapsulating a bold and determined nature, remains highly regarded. As an enduring choice, Rowan has gained recognition across different cultures and regions, illustrating its versatility and capturing the imagination of parents seeking a name with a strong historical background.

      In conclusion, the name Rowan, originating from Irish and meaning Little Red One, holds its roots in ancient Gaelic culture, with ties to the color red and spirited individuals. With its enduring prominence, the name continues to be embraced in contemporary contexts, reflecting its gender-neutral appeal and symbolizing courage and determination.

      Based on our records...

      Smith

      Smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Rowan.
      Mary

      Mary

      This is the most common name of those married to a Rowan.
      John

      John

      This is the most common name for a child of a Rowan.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1859 is when there were the most people born with the first name Rowan.

      Explore the origins of another name.