Thinkabara

Rowan: meaning and origin

Google Classroom Save to Pinterest Email me

Rowan

“Little red one; also the rowan tree”

Gender
🧒 Unisex
Origin
☘️ Irish
Letters · syllables
5 · 2
Starts with
R

NatureModern

About the name Rowan

Rowan is a girl or a boy’s name from the Irish tradition. Its meaning is “little red one; also the rowan tree”. Names from Irish Gaelic, often linked to nature, saints and heroes of old Irish stories — like Aiden, Maeve, Ronan and Keira.

It has a modern feel and has become more common in the US in recent decades.

More names with a similar meaning: nature names.

Tips before you choose

  • Say the full name out loud with your last name, and with any middle name.
  • Check the initials — and what they spell.
  • Think about nicknames kids might make from it.
  • Write it down: is the spelling easy for teachers and friends?

More Irish names

Sibling name ideas (Irish, girls and boys)

More unisex names starting with R

Questions and answers

What does the name Rowan mean?

Rowan is a name of Irish origin. It means: little red one; also the rowan tree.

Is Rowan a boy or girl name?

Rowan is used for both girls and boys in the US.

How many syllables does Rowan have?

Rowan has 5 letters and about 2 syllables.