Everything about the name MARVA

Meaning, origin, history

Marva is a unique and captivating female given name that originates from the Hebrew language. Its roots can be traced back to the Hebrew word "mar," which means "bitter" or "bitterness." However, it's important to note that this name is not directly derived from its original Hebrew meaning.

The name Marva first gained prominence during the 19th century in the United States, particularly among the African American community. It is believed to have been created by enslaved people who combined elements of other names they were familiar with, such as "Mary" and "Eva," or possibly inspired by the biblical place name "Marah" (a bitter well mentioned in Exodus).

Despite its Hebrew origins, Marva has not traditionally been associated with any specific religious or cultural significance. Instead, it has been embraced as a unique and distinctive name, often chosen for its appealing sound rather than any particular meaning.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Marva. For instance, Marva Collins was an American educator known for her innovative teaching methods and dedication to educating underprivileged children. However, these individuals are not necessarily linked by their name's origin or significance.

In conclusion, Marva is a compelling female given name with Hebrew roots but no definitive meaning attached. Its popularity has largely been driven by its unique sound and appeal rather than any particular historical or cultural associations. As such, it remains an intriguing choice for parents seeking a distinctive and memorable name for their daughter.

See also

Jewish

Popularity of the name MARVA since 1880

Birth evolution

Popularity analysis

The name Marva has seen a varied history of popularity in the United States over the past century. In the early 1900s, its usage was quite low, with only 5 births recorded in 1913 and 7 births in 1914.

However, from 1928 onwards, there was a notable increase in the number of newborn girls named Marva. The figure rose to 60 births that year and peaked at 350 births in 1936. This period marked the height of popularity for the name Marva in the United States.

This popularity lasted until around the mid-1940s, with over 200 births recorded each year between 1941 and 1948. However, afterwards, the usage of the name began to decline gradually but steadily.

By the late 1950s, fewer than 200 Marvas were being born annually, a trend that continued into the 60s and 70s. From the mid-80s onwards, the number of babies named Marva has remained in single digits each year, with only five births recorded in 2014, 2018, 2020, and 2023.

In total, over the course of a century (from 1913 to 2023), there have been approximately 10,362 newborn girls named Marva in the United States. Despite its ups and downs in popularity, the name Marva remains a classic choice that has stood the test of time.