Oval is a unique and distinctive given name of Latin origin. It means "egg-shaped" or "oval," referring to the geometric shape. This name has been used in various cultures throughout history, but it is not particularly common.
The name Oval is believed to have first appeared in English-speaking countries in the late 19th century. However, it was not until the mid-20th century that it began to gain some popularity as a given name for both boys and girls. Despite its rarity, Oval has been used in various parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Australia.
One of the most famous people named Oval is Ovaltine, a Swiss malted milk drink that was first introduced in 1904. The name Ovaltine is derived from the Latin word "ovum," meaning egg, and the English suffix "-tine." This popular beverage has contributed to the familiarity of the name Oval in some cultures.
In literature, Oval also appears as a character's name in several works. For example, it is the name of the protagonist's younger sister in the novel "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt. In this context, the name Oval is used to emphasize the character's unique and eccentric nature.
Overall, Oval is a rare and distinctive given name with an interesting origin and history. While it may not be as popular as many other names, its unique sound and meaning make it a memorable choice for parents looking for something different for their child.
The given statistics show the annual number of births with the name Oval in the United States from 1898 to 1928. During this period, there were a total of 101 babies named Oval.
The name Oval appears to have been more popular during the early part of the century, with peaks in births occurring between 1916 and 1922. The highest number of births in any single year was recorded in 1922, with a total of 10 newborns named Oval.
Interestingly, there were two years (1898 and 1901) where only one baby per year was given the name Oval. This suggests that during these years, parents who chose this name might have been drawn to its uniqueness.
Overall, while the name Oval may not be among the most popular today, it has a notable history in the United States, with a consistent number of babies being named Oval each year over a span of three decades.