Holding steady.
Popularity of Orvell since 1915
Babies named Orvell per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 31 |
| 1920s | 42 |
| 1930s | 39 |
| 1940s | 17 |
| 1950s | 6 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Orvell is a rare given name, first recorded in U.S. Social Security data in 1915. It has never ranked among the top 1000 names, reflecting its consistent obscurity. Its peak year came in 1922, and usage has since remained stable at extremely low levels, with fewer than five births in most recent years. The name is likely a variant of Orville, known from aviation pioneer Orville Wright, but the distinct spelling Orvell may have been an individualized choice. Because it never charted, no states can be highlighted as particular strongholds. Parents choosing Orvell today often seek a name that nods to history while remaining uncommon.
Orvell appears to be a rare variant of Orville, a name derived from a Norman French place name meaning 'golden town' (from 'or' meaning gold and 'ville' meaning settlement). Orville was brought to prominence in the United States through Orville Wright (1871-1948), the aviation pioneer. Orvell likely arose as a spelling modification in the early 20th century, possibly influenced by names like Lowell or Randall.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Orv
Variants: Orville
Sibling names for Orvell
Names that share Orvell's style, for a brother or sister.
