Meaning, origin, history
Rohan is a name of Irish origin that comes from the ancient Irish language word "ruadhán," which means "little red-haired one." The name Rohan has been popular among the Irish for centuries, and it was used by many important figures in Irish history.
The earliest known use of the name Rohan can be traced back to the 10th century, when a man named Ruadhan was recorded as being the Abbot of Lorrha in County Tipperary. Throughout the Middle Ages, several more men with the name Rohan appear in historical records, including Rohan O'Connor, who was a powerful chieftain in Ireland during the 12th century.
In modern times, the name Rohan has become popular around the world. It is often associated with the character Rohan from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, although it should be noted that Tolkien himself did not invent this name and it was already in use before his works were published.
Today, Rohan remains a beloved name among parents looking for unique and meaningful names for their children. Whether you're drawn to its Irish roots or simply love the sound of it, choosing the name Rohan is sure to give your child a rich history and heritage to be proud of.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Rohan since 1880
Total births
11,503
Total since 1880
Peak year
2004
522 births
in 2023
295
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-4%
→
vs previous 5 years