Irving

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Irving

Gender Boy
Origin English
Letters 6
Syllables 2
Pronunciation Ur-ving

Irving, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.

Meaning of Irving

Handsome and fair

Irving is a Scottish name derived from the Old English name "Eoforwine," which means “boar friend.” In some cases, it may also be derived from the Norse name "Ivar," meaning “archer.”

Save
Rate:
Be the first to rate!
Meaning Handsome and fair
Origin English
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #985 in 2005 Declining Fast
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Vintage (1910s)

Background & History of The Name Irving

The name 'Irving' is of Scottish origin and is derived from the Old English elements 'ir', meaning 'boar', and 'wine', meaning 'friend'. The name first appeared in Scotland in the 12th century and was used as a surname to describe someone who was a friend or companion of boars, possibly indicating a brave or fearless individual. Over time, it evolved into a given name and has been passed down through generations. Irving is a unisex name, given to both boys and girls, although it is more commonly used as a masculine name. It gained popularity in the 19th century and has remained a relatively popular choice for parents worldwide. It has also been used as a surname by notable individuals, such as Washington Irving, the American author known for his short stories including "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and "Rip Van Winkle". The name Irving has a strong and distinctive sound, and it is often associated with qualities like strength, bravery, and loyalty. People with this name are often described as determined and ambitious, with a natural ability to lead and take charge. They are known to be honest and trustworthy individuals who possess a strong sense of integrity and responsibility. In terms of popularity, the name Irving reached its peak in the early 20th century but has declined in recent years. However, it continues to be chosen by parents who value its unique and traditional charm. Overall, the name Irving is a meaningful choice for those seeking a name with ancient roots and a strong character.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Irving over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials Irving would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Irving.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names