Rowena is a name of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English elements 'hrouw' meaning sorrow or lamentation, and 'nan' which means girl or woman. The name was likely used in reference to the Virgin Mary, who was often associated with sadness and compassion due to her role as the mother of Jesus Christ.
The name Rowena first gained popularity during the Middle Ages in England, where it was often used among the nobility. One notable figure bearing this name was Rowena, daughter of Hrothgar, in the Old English epic poem Beowulf. In the poem, Rowena is described as being of great beauty and noble character, which may have contributed to the popularity of the name during this time.
Over the centuries, Rowena has remained a relatively uncommon but distinctive name. Today, it is still used occasionally around the world, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. Despite its meaning, Rowena is often associated with strength and independence due to its historical usage among powerful female figures.
In terms of notable individuals bearing the name Rowena, one famous example is Rowena Price, a British actress best known for her role in the television series "Emmerdale." Additionally, Rowena Ravenclaw is a character in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, although it should be noted that this character was named after the Ravenclaw house, not the other way around.
Overall, Rowena is a unique and historic name with a rich meaning rooted in Old English language and culture. While it may not be as widely used today as some other names, its distinctive sound and fascinating history make it a compelling choice for parents looking for something special for their daughters.
The name Rowena has had a varied history of popularity over the past century and a half in the United States. In the late 19th century, it started out with just 8 births recorded in 1880, but it began to gain traction in the early 20th century.
From 1907 onwards, there was a significant increase in the number of babies named Rowena, reaching a peak of 224 births in 1917. This high popularity continued until around 1935, with over 100 births per year recorded consistently during this period.
However, after 1935, there was a gradual decline in the number of babies named Rowena, with fewer than 100 births recorded annually from 1942 onwards. This trend continued until the late 1960s and early 1970s, when the popularity of the name reached its lowest point, with fewer than 50 births per year.
In recent years, there has been a slight resurgence in the popularity of the name Rowena. After reaching a low of just 6 births in 2003, the number of babies named Rowena has steadily increased, reaching 39 births in 2022 and 37 births in 2023.
Overall, while Rowena may not be one of the most popular names in the United States today, it has had periods of significant popularity throughout its history.