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Alvin Boy

Popularity: #620 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationAL-vin / /ˈæl.vɪn/

Old English; German

Meaning

Old English: noble friend; German: elf friend

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Alvin has its roots in Old English, derived from the elements "aelf," meaning "elf," and "wine," meaning "friend." This etymology suggests a literal meaning of "elf friend." The name was recorded in various forms throughout history, with early instances appearing in the Anglo-Saxon period. It was later adopted into Middle English, maintaining its original spelling and pronunciation, before becoming more widely recognized in the modern era.

Historically, the name Alvin has been associated with notable figures, particularly in the context of Anglo-Saxon England. One of the earliest recorded uses of the name can be traced back to the 8th century, with references in texts that highlight its popularity among the Anglo-Saxon nobility. The name gained further prominence through its association with saints and religious figures, particularly in the context of Christianization in England, where names of Old English origin were often favored. The name Alvin also appears in various historical documents and literature, contributing to its recognition in medieval society.

Culturally, the name Alvin has resonated through various traditions and folklore, often symbolizing friendship and loyalty, traits attributed to the mythical elves of Germanic mythology. The name's enduring appeal can be seen in its use in literature and popular culture, where it has been adopted by various characters and figures, further embedding it in the cultural consciousness. A diminutive form, Al, has also emerged, reflecting the name's adaptability and continued relevance in different contexts. Overall, Alvin carries a rich historical and cultural significance, rooted in its linguistic origins and historical usage.

Trend Summary

Alvin has experienced fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the early to mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Alvyn
  • Alvinne

International Variants

  • Alvino (Italian)
  • Alvín (Spanish)

Famous people named Alvin

Alvin Ailey was a choreographer and activist best known for Revelations, Ailey American Dance Theater, and his contributions to modern dance.

Alvin Toffler was an author and futurist best known for Future Shock, The Third Wave, and Powershift.

Fictional characters named Alvin

Alvin is a fictional character from the animated series Alvin and the Chipmunks. He is the lead singer of the Chipmunks and known for his mischievous personality.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Alvin was first seen in the United States in 1880. Alvin has ranked as high as #155 nationally, which occurred in 1927, and has been most popular in New York, California, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Alvin has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Alvin (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 44
18%
PA 33
13%
NY 27
11%
TX 24
10%
MA 12
5%
MI 12
5%
GA 12
5%
OH 12
5%
FL 10
4%
IL 9
4%
IN 7
3%
UT 7
3%
WI 7
3%
VA 6
2%
NC 6
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
1880102
1881105
1882132
1883113
1884145
1885125
1886112
1887128
1888157
1889137
1890147
1891121
1892164
1893163
1894167
1895179
1896183
1897186
1898184
1899173
1900223
1901179
1902201
1903222
1904247
1905258
1906239
1907245
1908307
1909363
1910401
1911460
1912929
19131,144
19141,532
19152,006
19162,093
19172,142
19182,409
19192,383
19202,523
19212,687
19222,598
19232,647
19242,759
19252,777
19262,693
19272,883
19282,750
19292,555
19302,512
19312,299
19322,274
19332,128
19342,147
19352,165
19361,970
19371,986
19382,063
19391,940
19401,910
19412,016
19422,071
19432,203
19441,967
19451,862
19462,047
19472,215
19482,270
19492,158
19502,269
19512,386
19522,335
19532,110
19542,368
19552,359
19562,432
19572,386
19582,182
19592,260
19601,996
19611,875
19621,711
19631,501
19641,461
19651,328
19661,239
19671,225
19681,112
19691,061
19701,087
19711,028
1972882
1973870
1974811
1975856
1976766
1977762
1978800
1979815
1980868
1981806
1982783
1983706
1984690
1985705
1986678
1987729
1988688
1989823
1990749
1991693
1992633
1993648
1994556
1995548
1996499
1997541
1998521
1999520
2000522
2001540
2002533
2003477
2004482
2005516
2006516
2007522
2008658
2009469
2010490
2011464
2012505
2013457
2014461
2015455
2016469
2017438
2018390
2019399
2020377
2021325
2022352
2023337
2024316