The cerulean flycatcher was originally described in the genus Zeocephus, and until recently was known as the cerulean paradise-flycatcher. Alternate names include Rowley's flycatcher and Rowley's paradise-flycatcher.
The cerulean flycatcher was first identified within the Zeocephus genus, and until recently was known as the cerulean paradise-flycatcher. It has also been referred to as Rowley's flycatcher or Rowley's paradise-flycatcher.