MallowbyNames

Orvin

OR-vin · Possibly derived from Old English elements meaning "spear friend" or a variant of Orwin.

Peak popularity
1917
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Orvin since 1890

Babies named Orvin per year in U.S. Social Security records.

153045192019602000Most births 1917Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1890s5
1900s10
1910s249
1920s334
1930s207
1940s127
1950s91
1960s51
1970s11
1980s0
1990s7
2000s16
2010s11
2020s21

Meaning & origin

Orvin is a rare masculine name with a straightforward Old English derivation meaning "spear friend." It reached its peak usage in 1917, but even then it never entered the top rankings. The name has maintained a stable but minimal presence, with occasional births recorded in recent decades. While not associated with any particular region, Orvin fits alongside other -vin and -win names from the early 1900s. Its simplicity and historical roots may appeal to those seeking an uncommon but recognizable name.

Orvin is likely a variant of the Old English name Orwin, composed of the elements "or" (spear) and "wine" (friend), thus meaning "spear friend." It may also be a modern coinage or respelling. The name saw modest usage in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the United States, but has remained rare.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Orv

Variants: Orwin

Sibling names for Orvin

Names that share Orvin's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Edna, Ida, Mabel, Pearl, Vera

Brothers: Arvin, Elvin, Irvin, Marvin, Orval, Curvin

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

O is for Orvin, our favorite little boy.

O is for Orvin…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Orvin's letter becomes Orvin's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Orvin's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Orvin mean?
Orvin is believed to mean "spear friend," derived from Old English elements "or" (spear) and "wine" (friend).
Is Orvin a popular name?
Orvin has never been a common name. Its peak year of usage was 1917, but it has not ranked in the top 1000 since the early 20th century.
Is Orvin a boy or girl name?
Orvin is traditionally a masculine name.