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

Popularity of Traven by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Traven is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Traven.

The history of the first name Traven

The name Traven is believed to have its origins in the ancient Germanic language, stemming from the root word "trava," which means "tree" or "wood." This suggests that the name may have been originally associated with individuals who lived in forested areas or worked with wood.

In the early medieval period, the name was primarily found in various Germanic tribes and kingdoms across central and northern Europe. Historical records from the 8th to 10th centuries mention individuals with similar name variations, such as "Traveno" and "Travenus," indicating the name's longevity.

One of the earliest known references to the name Traven can be found in the Old Saxon epic poem "Heliand," dating back to the 9th century. The poem mentions a character named "Traven," who is depicted as a wise and respected figure among the Saxon people.

Interestingly, the name Traven also appears in several religious texts and contexts. In the 12th century, a Benedictine monk named Traven von Bamberg was known for his scholarly contributions and writings on monastic life. Additionally, in the 16th century, a Protestant reformer named Traven Rausch played a significant role in the spread of Lutheranism in certain regions of Germany.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Traven. One of the earliest recorded figures was Traven the Elder (c. 920 - 988), a influential nobleman and landowner in the Duchy of Saxony during the 10th century. Another prominent figure was Traven von Mainz (1160 - 1234), a renowned architect and stonemason who contributed to the construction of several iconic cathedrals in Germany.

In the literary realm, the pseudonymous author B. Traven (1890 - 1969) gained significant recognition for his novels and short stories depicting the lives of the oppressed and marginalized in Mexico during the early 20th century. His works, such as "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre," have become classics of modern literature.

More recently, the German actor Traven Kauffman (1954 - ) has made a name for himself in both film and television, appearing in numerous productions and earning critical acclaim for his performances.

While the name Traven may not be as common today as it once was, its rich history and linguistic roots in the Germanic tradition have left an indelible mark on the cultural tapestry of Europe and beyond.

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

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

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