Melvin is a classic, yet distinguished name of English origin, derived from the Germanic words 'maþil' meaning 'strength' and 'win' meaning 'friend'. It was popularized during the Middle Ages through Norman French influence in England. In its heyday, Melvin was often paired with names like Baldwin and Alaric, reflecting the fashion for strong, powerful-sounding monikers during that era.
The name Melvin reached its peak popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in the United States. It was among the top 500 most popular boy names from 1900 to around 1970, with a noticeable spike between 1900 and 1920. Today, Melvin remains a classic choice, often favored for its timelessness and robustness.
Notable figures bearing this name include American jazz musician Melvin 'Sy' Oliver, who was a prominent trombonist and composer during the swing era; and British actor Melvyn Douglas, known for his roles in films like 'Ninotchka' and 'The Chateau', as well as his Broadway appearances. These individuals have contributed to the enduring appeal of this strong-sounding name.
While variations such as Melville, Malvin, or Melborne exist, Melvin stands steadfastly alone as a name of considerable history and character. It is often associated with wisdom, maturity, and a certain air of dignity, making it an excellent choice for parents seeking a classic yet distinctive name for their child.
The name Melvin experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years. It started with a low of just 5 births per year in 1895 and 1897, but by 1914, it had risen dramatically to 27 births. The peak was reached in 1924 with 53 births. However, after the late 1920s, the popularity of the name began to decline steadily, falling below 10 births per year from 1981 onwards. By 1991, there were only 5 recorded births named Melvin. In total, over this period, there were 2139 babies named Melvin.