The surname Bowman is of English and Scottish origin, derived from the Middle English words "bow(e)man" or "bouman," which translate to "the bowman" or "a maker of bows" from Old English "boga" (bow) and "mann" (man). Historically, it referred to an archer, hunter, or soldier armed with a bow. The name has also been associated with a person who farms for a season the tenant's milk-cows and pasture. Over time, the name has evolved and been Americanized, with variations including Baumann and Bouwman. Despite its occupational origins, the Bowman surname has become a common name in many regions, including the United States, where it is found in various states such as California, North Carolina, and Texas.
