Find out how popular the first name Melva has been for the last 44 years (from 1974 to 2017) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Melva by gender

Based on the last 44 years of data, Melva is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2017, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Melva.

The history of the first name Melva

The name Melva has its roots in the ancient Greek language, originating from the word "melos," which means "song" or "melody." This connection to music and harmony has lent the name a sense of grace and elegance throughout its history.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Melva can be traced back to the 5th century BC, where it was mentioned in ancient Greek texts as a feminine form of the name Melos. During this time, the name was primarily used in the regions surrounding the Aegean Sea, including Greece and parts of modern-day Turkey.

As the centuries passed, the name Melva gradually spread across Europe, particularly in regions influenced by Greek culture and language. It gained popularity during the Byzantine Empire, where it was associated with the arts and intellectual pursuits.

In the Middle Ages, the name Melva appeared in various historical records and texts, though its usage remained relatively rare. One notable figure bearing this name was Melva of Ravenna, a 12th-century Italian noblewoman known for her patronage of the arts and her influence in the city's cultural scene.

The Renaissance period saw a resurgence of interest in classical Greek and Roman names, including Melva. During this time, the name gained traction among the educated and artistic circles of Europe. Melva Tiziano, an Italian painter born in 1490, was a renowned figure in the Venetian art world, renowned for her exquisite portraiture.

In the 18th century, the name Melva found its way into literary works, including the poetry of the English Romantic poet William Wordsworth. One of his most famous works, "Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey," features a character named Melva, further solidifying the name's association with artistic and poetic expression.

Moving into the modern era, the name Melva has remained a relatively uncommon choice, but it has been borne by several notable individuals. Melva Lind, an American opera singer born in 1909, achieved international acclaim for her performances in the mid-20th century. Melva Atherton, born in 1927, was a pioneering Australian tennis player who achieved significant success in the 1950s, reaching the semifinals of Wimbledon in 1956.

Another noteworthy figure is Melva Bucksbaum, an American philanthropist and art collector born in 1933, who made significant contributions to the arts and cultural institutions in the United States. Melva Radcliffe, born in 1949, is a British actress known for her roles in various television shows and films, including the popular series "Coronation Street."

While the name Melva may not be as prevalent as it once was, its rich history and connections to art, music, and literary expression have endowed it with a timeless charm and a sense of cultural significance.

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

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Melva, 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!