Find out how popular the first name Galvin has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Galvin by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Galvin is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 8 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Galvin.

The history of the first name Galvin

The given name Galvin has its origins in the Gaelic language and culture, tracing back to medieval times in Ireland and Scotland. It is derived from the Old Irish word "gailbhín," which means "little valor" or "little hawk." The name is believed to have emerged as a diminutive form of the name Gall, which was a common name among the Gaels.

Galvin's earliest recorded use can be found in ancient Irish manuscripts and historical records from as early as the 10th century. During this period, the name was primarily associated with members of the Irish nobility and warriors who displayed acts of bravery and valor on the battlefield.

One of the earliest notable figures to bear the name Galvin was Galvin mac Áeda, a 10th-century Irish king and warrior who ruled over the Kingdom of Uí Fiachrach Aidne in what is now County Galway, Ireland. He is mentioned in the Annals of Ulster, a chronicle of medieval Irish history, for his military exploits and leadership during a time of frequent conflicts between Irish kingdoms.

Another historical figure with the name Galvin was Galvin Ó Ruairc, a 12th-century Irish chieftain and leader of the Ó Ruairc clan in the northern part of County Leitrim, Ireland. He is recorded in the Annals of the Four Masters, a significant collection of medieval Irish chronicles, for his involvement in various battles and territorial disputes.

In the 13th century, there was a notable Scottish figure named Galvin Og, who was a skilled archer and warrior in the service of King Alexander III of Scotland. He is mentioned in several Scottish historical records for his participation in military campaigns against Norwegian invaders and his prowess with the longbow.

During the 16th century, Galvin Mac an Bhaird, an Irish poet and bard, gained recognition for his compositions in the Gaelic language. His works were widely circulated and celebrated among the Irish literary circles of the time, and he is regarded as one of the last great bards of the classical Gaelic tradition.

Another notable figure with the name Galvin was Galvin O'Daly, an Irish Franciscan friar and historian who lived in the 17th century. He is best known for his work "The Initiation of Tara," a historical treatise that provides valuable insights into the ancient traditions and customs of Irish kingship and the inauguration ceremonies at the Hill of Tara.

While the name Galvin has its roots in the Gaelic world, it has since spread to various parts of the globe due to Irish and Scottish emigration. However, its usage has remained relatively rare compared to other Irish names, making it a distinctive and historically significant choice for those with an appreciation for Celtic heritage and culture.

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 Galvin was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

Reference this page

We spend a lot of resources downloading, cleaning, merging, and formatting the data that is shown on the site.

If you found the data or information on this page useful in your research, please use the tool below to properly cite or reference Name Census as the source. We appreciate your support!