The name Jawan is of Persian origin, deriving from the Persian word "javan" meaning "young" or "youth." The name is rooted in ancient Iranian cultures and has been used for centuries in various regions influenced by Persian language and culture.

Jawan traces its linguistic roots back to the Avestan language, an ancient Iranian tongue predating modern Persian. In Avestan texts, the word "javana" referred to the concept of youth, vigor, and vitality. This connection to youthfulness and energy likely contributed to the name's enduring popularity in the Persian cultural sphere.

The earliest documented use of the name Jawan can be found in medieval Persian literature, where it was occasionally bestowed upon characters or historical figures celebrated for their bravery, strength, and vitality. For instance, the 11th-century Persian poet Ferdowsi's epic Shahnameh features a character named Jawan, depicted as a valiant warrior.

Throughout the centuries, Jawan has been borne by several notable figures in the Persian-speaking world. One prominent example is Jawan Bakht, a Mughal prince and son of Emperor Aurangzeb, who lived from 1667 to 1744. Another is Jawan Mard Khan, an 18th-century Afghan military leader and commander under Ahmad Shah Durrani.

Beyond the Persian sphere, the name has also found resonance in other cultures influenced by Persian language and traditions. In the Indian subcontinent, for instance, Jawan has been used as a given name among various communities, particularly those with historical ties to Persia or the Mughal Empire.

One notable Indian bearer of the name was Jawan Singh, a 19th-century ruler of the princely state of Bharatpur in present-day Rajasthan. He reigned from 1853 to 1855 and was known for his military prowess and leadership during a turbulent period in Indian history.

Furthermore, the name Jawan has also been adopted in various forms in other languages and cultures. In Turkish, for example, the name is rendered as "Cavan," while in Arabic, it takes the form "Jawaan" or "Jawan."