The given name Treva is believed to have originated as a feminine form of the English surname Trevor, which itself is derived from the Welsh name Trefor. Trefor is thought to come from the Welsh words "tref" meaning "town" and "mawr" meaning "great," essentially translating to "great town" or "large settlement."

The name Treva is presumed to have emerged as an Anglicized variant of Trefor, likely during the medieval period when many Welsh names were adapted into English forms. While its precise origin is uncertain, the earliest documented instances of the name Treva can be traced back to the late 19th century in parts of Britain and the United States.

One of the earliest notable individuals with the name Treva was Treva Paulitz, an American painter and printmaker born in 1900 in Spokane, Washington. Paulitz was known for her vibrant depictions of landscapes and her contributions to the art scene in the Pacific Northwest.

Another historical figure with the name Treva was Treva Ellison, a British journalist and author who lived from 1914 to 2003. Ellison wrote several books on gardening and horticulture and was a respected authority in her field.

In the early 20th century, Treva Avery was a Canadian actress and singer who performed on stage and radio. She was born in 1901 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and had a successful career in the entertainment industry during the 1920s and 1930s.

Treva Berliner, an American sculptor and artist, was born in 1915 in New York City. She was known for her abstract and modernist works and had several solo exhibitions throughout her career.

Lastly, Treva Greenwalt was an American businesswoman and philanthropist who lived from 1927 to 2018. She co-founded the successful Greenwalt Corporation and was actively involved in various charitable organizations throughout her life.

While the name Treva has remained relatively uncommon throughout history, these individuals exemplify the diverse backgrounds and accomplishments of those who have borne this unique moniker over the years.