Find out how popular the first name Ovie has been for the last 46 years (from 1978 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Ovie by gender

Based on the last 46 years of data, Ovie is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 22 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Ovie.

The history of the first name Ovie

The name Ovie has its origins in the Edo language spoken by the Edo people of southern Nigeria. It derives from the word "Ọvbiyẹ" which means "born on the road" or "born during a journey." This suggests that the name was likely given to children born away from home or during travels in ancient Edo culture.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Ovie date back to the 16th century, during the height of the Benin Empire in what is now modern-day Nigeria. It was a common practice among the Edo people to give names with specific meanings related to the circumstances of a child's birth or events surrounding it.

One of the earliest known historical figures with the name Ovie was Ọvie Ọbamwẹnriẹ, who ruled as the Oba (king) of Benin from 1547 to 1574. He is credited with expanding the territory and influence of the Benin Empire during his reign.

Another notable Ovie in history was Ovie Ogun-Eradiauwa, a renowned warrior and military commander who lived in the 17th century. He played a crucial role in defending the Benin Empire against invading forces and was celebrated for his bravery and strategic skills.

In the 19th century, Ovie Egharevba was a prominent Edo chief and diplomat who served as the Iyase (prime minister) of Benin during the reign of Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi. He was instrumental in negotiating with the British during the Benin Expedition of 1897.

Ovie Agene was a respected Edo scholar and historian who lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He made significant contributions to preserving and documenting the history, culture, and traditions of the Edo people through his writings and oral teachings.

While the name Ovie has its roots in the Edo language and culture, it has gained popularity beyond Nigeria and Africa. Several notable individuals around the world have borne this name, including Ovie Mughelli, a former American football fullback who played in the National Football League from 2003 to 2011.

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

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

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