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

Popularity of Mavis by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Mavis is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 501 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Mavis.

The history of the first name Mavis

The name Mavis is of English origin, deriving from the French word "mauvis," which means "song thrush." The name was originally given to girls born in springtime, as the song thrush was seen as a herald of the season. It gained popularity during the Middle Ages, particularly in rural areas where people had a close connection to nature.

In medieval England, Mavis was a common name among peasants and serfs. It was often associated with simplicity, humility, and a love for the outdoors. Some scholars believe that the name may have been inspired by the biblical verse from the Song of Songs, which compares the beloved's voice to the sweet song of a turtle dove.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Mavis can be found in the Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, written in the 14th century. Chaucer's character, the Wife of Bath, mentions a woman named Mavis in her prologue. This suggests that the name was already in use during that time period.

In the 16th century, the name Mavis gained some popularity among the upper classes, particularly in Scotland. One notable bearer of the name was Mavis Spencer (1605-1677), a Scottish noblewoman and courtier to King Charles I. Her life and influence at the royal court were documented in various historical records.

Another famous Mavis from history was Mavis Batey (1924-2013), a British code-breaker during World War II. She worked at Bletchley Park, the site of Britain's codebreaking efforts, and played a vital role in deciphering German communications. Her contributions were recognized with several honors, including an MBE.

In the realm of literature, the name Mavis is associated with the Scottish author Mavis Gallant (1922-2014), known for her short stories and novels. Her works often explored themes of exile, displacement, and the complexities of human relationships.

Mavis Staples (born 1939) is a renowned American singer and civil rights activist. As a member of the famous Staple Singers, she played a significant role in the music of the African-American civil rights movement. Her powerful voice and heartfelt performances have earned her numerous accolades, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

While the name Mavis has declined in popularity in recent decades, it remains a charming and evocative name with a rich history tied to nature, literature, and significant historical figures. Its enduring appeal lies in its connection to the sweet song of a bird and the promise of springtime.

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

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

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