Rowan
DescriptiveMeaning
Red-haired person or derived from the rowan tree.
Etymology
Derived from Irish 'ruadh' meaning red, or from the rowan tree (Sorbus aucuparia) common in British Isles. The surname may also come from the Old Norse 'rauðr' meaning red.
About the Rowan Surname
A surname with multiple possible origins related to red hair or the rowan tree, popular in Celtic regions. It has become increasingly common in modern times across English-speaking countries.
Distribution
Common in Ireland, Scotland, and English-speaking countries worldwide.
Notable Bearers
Carl Rowan, Peter Rowan