Granville is an intriguing and somewhat uncommon male given name of French origin. It is derived from the French word 'grand' meaning 'great', and 'ville' signifying 'town'. Thus, Granville translates to 'great town'. This name has been associated with several notable historical figures and locations throughout history. For instance, Granville was a duchy in Normandy, France, and it also gave its name to the British naval hero John Byng, 1st Earl of Torrington, who served during the War of Spanish Succession in the early 18th century. In more recent times, the name has been popularized by individuals such as American actor Granville Van Dusen, known for his role in the television series 'Peyton Place', and British musician Grant-Lee Phillips, lead singer of the alternative rock band Grant Lee Buffalo. Despite its historical roots and occasional appearances in media, Granville remains a relatively uncommon name today, potentially offering an interesting and unique choice for parents seeking to give their child a distinctive moniker with a rich history behind it.
"The name Granvill experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century with consistent occurrences between 1917 and 1931, culminating in a total of 28 births during these years."