Log in · Sign up

Elvin Boy

Popularity: #806 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: EL-vin /ˈɛlvɪn/

Origin: English; Old English

Meaning: Noble friend; elf friend

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Elvin has its roots in Old English, deriving from the elements "aelf," meaning "elf," and "wine," meaning "friend." This etymological combination suggests a literal meaning of "elf friend." The name evolved through various linguistic stages, moving from Old English to Middle English, and eventually into modern English usage. The transition reflects the broader historical context of the Anglo-Saxon period, where names often drew upon elements of nature and mythology, particularly the significance of elves in Germanic folklore as beings associated with nature and magic.

Historically, the name Elvin has been linked to various cultural and literary references. While it does not appear prominently in biblical texts or among notable historical figures, its components resonate with the rich tapestry of Anglo-Saxon heritage.

The name's association with elves aligns it with themes of enchantment and companionship, which were prevalent in medieval literature. The name's usage can be traced back to the early medieval period, where it may have been used in various forms among the Anglo-Saxon populace.

Culturally, Elvin embodies a sense of friendship and connection to the mystical, which has allowed it to endure through centuries. The name's association with elves, often depicted as benevolent and wise, contributes to its positive connotations.

Additionally, diminutive forms such as Elvie may have emerged, reflecting a trend in naming practices where affectionate or familiar versions of names are created. Overall, Elvin encapsulates a blend of linguistic heritage and cultural significance that has contributed to its lasting presence in the English-speaking world.

Famous people named Elvin

Elvin Jones was a jazz drummer best known for his work with the John Coltrane Quartet, as well as his solo albums and collaborations with other jazz musicians.

Elvin Bishop is a musician best known for his hit song 'Fooled Around and Fell in Love' and as a founding member of the Paul Butterfield Blues Band.

Elvin Ng is a professional golfer best known for competing in various international golf tournaments.

Sibling suggestions

Similar names

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Elvin was first seen in the United States in 1880.

Elvin has ranked as high as #549 nationally, which occurred in 1927, and has been most popular in New York, Texas, California, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana.

In the past 5 years the name Elvin has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Elvin (2024)

State Births Share
CA 14
20%
TX 13
18%
NC 9
13%
VA 7
10%
NY 7
10%
MD 6
8%
GA 5
7%
MA 5
7%
PA 5
7%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188010
188120
188215
188315
188414
188512
188615
18879
188815
188921
189010
189114
189224
189320
189418
189525
189621
189718
189819
189921
190024
190125
190229
190322
190429
190527
190633
190740
190842
190955
191054
191178
1912128
1913129
1914192
1915301
1916265
1917291
1918316
1919316
1920331
1921346
1922346
1923304
1924323
1925348
1926352
1927392
1928323
1929299
1930341
1931301
1932255
1933247
1934266
1935241
1936230
1937231
1938208
1939231
1940200
1941198
1942219
1943219
1944202
1945176
1946202
1947216
1948188
1949174
1950182
1951172
1952178
1953183
1954179
1955170
1956188
1957181
1958205
1959192
1960176
1961191
1962144
1963161
1964155
1965122
1966122
1967127
1968106
1969140
1970131
1971126
1972120
197396
197498
1975115
1976123
1977119
1978133
1979136
1980113
1981112
1982106
1983103
1984106
1985121
1986101
198796
1988122
1989116
1990122
1991111
1992132
1993121
1994104
1995110
199687
1997110
1998109
1999149
2000131
2001137
2002142
2003161
2004176
2005182
2006169
2007214
2008185
2009154
2010137
2011143
2012144
2013136
2014132
2015128
2016117
2017105
2018121
2019115
2020105
202199
202298
2023118
2024118