Rowan
Meaning: Little red one or rowan tree
Origin: Irish Gaelic/Old Norse
Gender: Unisex
Rank in Ireland: #244
Total births: 1,063
History: Rowan has been associated with the great tradition of Irish poetry, from the bardic schools to Seamus Heaney. The name carries the lyrical beauty of the Irish landscape in every syllable. It appeals to parents who love language and imagination.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Ireland’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (2025) | #76 |
| Babies named Rowan in 2025 | 78 |
| Total recorded in Ireland | 1,063 |
| Peak year | 2025 (78 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #76 |
| Years in records | 1966–2025 (55 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↑ 468 spots |
| Gender breakdown | 90% boys / 10% girls |
Frequently asked about Rowan
What does the name Rowan mean?
Rowan means “Little red one or rowan tree” from Irish Gaelic/Old Norse roots.
What is the origin of the name Rowan?
Rowan has Irish Gaelic/Old Norse origin. The traditional meaning is “Little red one or rowan tree”.
How popular is Rowan in Ireland?
Rowan ranked #76 in Ireland in 2025 — given to 78 babies that year.
When was Rowan most popular?
Rowan peaked in 2025 with 78 babies registered that year in Ireland.
Is Rowan a boy or girl name?
Rowan is used for both boys and girls. In the records, about 90% of Rowans are boys and 10% are girls.
Is the name Rowan rising or falling in popularity?
Rowan has risen 468 spots in the rankings over the last 5 years in Ireland — from #544 in 2020 to #76 in 2025.
How long has Rowan been recorded in Ireland?
Rowan appears in birth records in Ireland across 55 years — from 1966 through 2025.