A 1880s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Bowman since 1884
Babies named Bowman per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2025, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Bowman's real moment was 1884.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 0 |
| 1900s | 0 |
| 1910s | 31 |
| 1920s | 72 |
| 1930s | 29 |
| 1940s | 29 |
| 1950s | 39 |
| 1960s | 11 |
| 1970s | 6 |
| 1980s | 37 |
| 1990s | 61 |
| 2000s | 108 |
| 2010s | 300 |
| 2020s | 294 |
Meaning & origin
Bowman is a surname-turned-first-name that has seen a notable resurgence in recent decades. First recorded in 1884, it reappeared after a long hiatus and has been rising in use since 1987, reflecting a broader trend of occupational and surname names for boys. In 2025, it ranked 2,390, with approximately 1 in 30,000 newborns receiving the name. Historically more common in Southern states like South Carolina, North Carolina, and Texas, Bowman carries a sturdy, preppy feel. Its etymology ties to both archery and servitude, but the modern appeal lies in its surname style, similar to Walker or Sawyer. The peak year remains its first recorded year, 1884, but its steady climb suggests it is finding a new audience among parents seeking distinctive yet familiar names.
Bowman is an English surname derived from the Middle English 'bowe' (bow) and 'man', originally denoting an archer. However, as a given name it more likely draws on the Old English 'bōfa' (servant, boy), later reinforced by the Scottish 'bowman' (a young attendant). It was revived in the late 20th century as a distinctive surname-as-first-name choice.
Where Bowman is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Bo
Sibling names for Bowman
Names that share Bowman's style, for a brother or sister.
