The name Orville is of French origin, derived from the Old French name Orville, which itself comes from the Latin word "aurea" meaning "golden" and the word "villa" meaning "town" or "village". The name dates back to the Middle Ages and was initially used as a surname for someone who hailed from a particular golden or prosperous town.

While the name has no known direct references in ancient texts or religious scriptures, it likely gained popularity during the High Middle Ages when French naming conventions were spreading across Europe. The earliest recorded use of Orville as a first name can be traced back to the 12th century in parts of what is now France and England.

One of the earliest notable individuals with the name Orville was Orville de Willuby, an English knight who lived in the late 12th century and fought in the Third Crusade under King Richard I. Another early bearer of the name was Orville de Caux, a French nobleman from the 13th century who was known for his patronage of the arts.

In the 19th century, the name gained renewed prominence with the birth of Orville Wright (1871-1948), the American aviation pioneer who, along with his brother Wilbur, is credited with inventing and building the world's first successful airplane. Orville Wright's achievements helped popularize the name in the United States.

Another notable Orville was Orville Redenbacher (1907-1995), the American businessman and entrepreneur who founded the popular popcorn brand bearing his name. His success in the food industry helped cement the name's recognition in the 20th century.

Other notable individuals named Orville include Orville Hickok Browning (1806-1881), an American politician and Senator from Illinois, Orville Schell (born 1940), an American author and journalist, and Orville Dennison (1835-1904), a Canadian businessman and politician who served as a member of the House of Commons.