Bowan

The surname Bowan is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "boga", meaning "bend" or "curve". It is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who had a bow-shaped or curved feature, such as a bow-shaped leg or a curved nose.

The Bowan surname is most commonly found in the southern regions of England, particularly in counties like Sussex, Kent, and Surrey. Throughout history, individuals bearing the surname Bowan have been involved in various professions, including archery, carpentry, and farming.

One notable individual with the surname Bowan is John Bowan, a renowned archer from medieval England who was said to have excelled in tournaments and battles. Another notable figure is Elizabeth Bowan, a prominent artist known for her landscape paintings in the 19th century.

The Bowan surname has undergone various spelling variations over the centuries, including Bowen, Bowin, and Buwan. Today, individuals with the surname Bowan can be found across the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world, particularly in former British colonies.

Overall, the Bowan surname holds a rich history and is a testament to the diverse origins of British surnames.

There are approximately 41 people named Bowan in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Bowan.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Female

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.