Find out how popular the first name Duval has been for the last 48 years (from 1975 to 2022) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Duval by gender

Based on the last 48 years of data, Duval is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2022, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Duval.

The history of the first name Duval

The name Duval is derived from the French language and has its origins in the Middle Ages. It is a variant spelling of the French surname "du Val," which translates to "of the valley." The name is believed to have originated as a descriptive term for individuals who lived in or near a valley.

During the medieval period, the name Duval was particularly prevalent in northern France, particularly in the regions of Normandy and Brittany. It was often used as a surname to distinguish families or individuals from a specific geographic location, such as a particular valley or settlement.

While the name Duval does not appear to have any direct references in ancient texts or religious scriptures, it has been recorded in historical documents and records from the Middle Ages onward. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Duval can be found in the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of land and property in England commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Duval. One of the earliest was Guillaume Duval (c. 1190-1249), a French prelate who served as the Bishop of Lisieux from 1227 until his death. Another prominent figure was Claude Duval (c. 1643-1670), a famous French highwayman and outlaw who became renowned for his daring robberies and gentlemanly conduct.

In the realm of art, the name Duval is associated with Pierre Puvis de Chavannes (1824-1898), a renowned French painter known for his murals and allegorical works. In literature, the French author and philosopher Henri Duval (1812-1882) gained recognition for his writings on philosophy and education.

Another notable figure was Fernand Duval (1889-1957), a French actor and film director who appeared in numerous films during the early 20th century. In the field of sports, Duval was the surname of John Duval (1766-1822), an English cricketer who played for Hampshire and England during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

These are just a few examples of individuals throughout history who have borne the name Duval, showcasing its enduring presence across various fields and cultures over several centuries.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Duval was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Duval, please contact us.

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