Rowley is an uncommon, yet distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old French word 'Roulet,' which means 'little wheel' or 'spinning top.' This name was historically used as a surname before evolving into a first name in more recent times.
The name Rowley has a strong connection to the English aristocracy, with several individuals bearing this name having held prominent titles and positions throughout history. One notable example is Sir John Rowley (1450-1521), who served as the Sheriff of Norfolk and Suffolk during the reign of King Henry VII.
In literature, Rowley appears as a character in William Shakespeare's play "The Merry Wives of Windsor." The character, known as Sir John Falstaff, is also referred to by his nickname 'Rowley' at times throughout the story. This association has likely contributed to the name's enduring popularity among those with an interest in classic literature.
Today, Rowley remains a relatively rare choice for a first name, but it continues to be used and appreciated for its unique sound and historical significance. It is often paired with other names of similar vintage or style, such as Oswald, Alaric, and Theobald. Parents who choose the name Rowley may do so because they appreciate its distinctive nature, its connection to English history, or simply because they like how it sounds.
In terms of popularity, Rowley has never been a common choice for a first name in the United States. According to data from the Social Security Administration, the name has appeared on the annual list of baby names fewer than ten times since record-keeping began in 1879. This scarcity makes the name Rowley all the more special and unique among those who bear it.
Overall, Rowley is an uncommon yet distinctive given name with a rich history and strong connections to English aristocracy and literature. Its rarity today makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a unique name with character and charm.
The name Rowley has seen a consistent though modest number of births each year since 2008, with an average of about six births per year over the nineteen-year period. There were no reported births for four years (2010, 2013-2015, and 2017), indicating that the name's popularity has been fairly steady but not overwhelmingly popular in any given year. The total number of babies named Rowley over this time period is forty-seven.