Find out how popular the first name Orval has been for the last 22 years (from 1974 to 1995) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Orval by gender

Based on the last 22 years of data, Orval is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 1995, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Orval.

The history of the first name Orval

The given name Orval has its origins in the French language, with the earliest recorded use dating back to the Middle Ages. It is believed to be derived from the Old French word "orval," which means "fertile valley" or "green valley." This suggests that the name may have been initially associated with agricultural or rural communities in France.

One of the earliest documented instances of the name Orval can be found in the 12th century, when Orval Abbey, a Cistercian monastery, was founded in the Gaume region of present-day Belgium. The abbey was named after the nearby Orval valley, which lent its name to the monastic establishment. This connection indicates that the name Orval had already gained recognition and usage during this period.

Throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the name Orval was primarily concentrated in France and the neighboring regions of Belgium and Luxembourg. It was often associated with rural or agricultural communities, reflecting its etymological roots. However, there are no significant historical figures or prominent individuals bearing the name Orval during this time period that have been widely documented.

In the 18th century, Orval Ormsby (1718-1789) was a British military officer who served in the American Revolutionary War. He fought on the side of the British forces and was involved in several campaigns, including the Battle of Long Island and the Battle of Brandywine. Ormsby's use of the name Orval highlights its presence in English-speaking regions during this era.

In the 19th century, Orval Hosford (1826-1906) was an American farmer and politician from Ohio. He served as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives and was actively involved in agricultural organizations, further reinforcing the name's connection to rural communities and farming.

Another notable individual with the name Orval was Orval Grove (1873-1931), an American engineer and inventor. He was granted several patents for his innovations in the field of mining and mineral processing, contributing to the development of industrial technologies during the early 20th century.

Orval Moore (1892-1971) was an American baseball player who played in the major leagues for the Philadelphia Athletics and the St. Louis Browns. He had a successful career as a utility player, showcasing the name's presence in the realm of professional sports.

While the name Orval has its roots in French and rural origins, its usage has spread across various cultures and regions over time, reflecting its enduring nature and adaptability.

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

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

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