Rowena

What does the baby name Rowena mean? Learn about what Rowena means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Rowena - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Rowena: R-O-W-E-N-A, is a 6-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Rowena: ro-EE-nə; roe WEE nah
Meaning of Rowena: White haired, white or comely, fame joy, fame and delight, fair haired, white mane.
Origin of Rowena: The name 'Rowena' has a captivating origin that can be traced back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated from the Germanic languages, specifically Old High German and Old English. The earliest known use of the name can be found in Sir Walter Scott 's novel 'Ivanhoe', where 'Rowena' is depicted as a beautiful and noble character. This literary connection has contributed to the name 's popularity over the years.; American Names; Anglo Saxon Names; British Names; Canadian Names; Celtic Names; English Names; Germanic Names; Saxon Names; Welsh Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Rowena: Rana; Rhonwen; Rohana; Ronwen; Roweena; Roweina; Rowina; Rowine
Popularity of Rowena: 'Rowena 's popularity has seen fluctuations throughout history. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the name experienced a notable spike in usage, possibly due to its association with the romanticized medieval era portrayed in literature and art during that time. However, in recent decades, the name has become less common, as parents often opt for more modern or unique names for their children.; Rowena currently has 86 likes, and is in the top 7% of liked girl's names. The name Theodora is slightly more popular than Rowena.

Etymology of Rowena

The linguistic roots of 'Rowena' can be traced back to the Old High German name Hrodwīn, which means 'fame' or 'joy'. The name also has connections to Old English, where it is derived from the elements hrod, meaning 'fame', and wynn, meaning 'joy' or 'bliss'. These etymological roots highlight the positive connotations associated with the name and the aspirations parents may have for their child 's future.

Cultural Significance of Rowena

While 'Rowena' does not have any specific cultural significance, it has been embraced by various cultures around the world. In literature, the name has been used to represent beauty, grace, and strength. This has contributed to its popularity in the fantasy genre, where authors often draw inspiration from ancient legends and myths. In addition, 'Rowena' has been used as a given name in different cultures, including English, German, and Scandinavian, further enhancing its cross-cultural appeal.