Meaning, origin, history
Orville is a boy's name of English origin. It means "golden town" and comes from the Old French word "Or", meaning gold, combined with the Norman word "ville", meaning town or settlement.
The name Orville first appeared in England during the Middle Ages when the Normans conquered the country in 1066. Many Norman nobles brought their own names and customs to England, including the practice of naming children after places where they were born or lived. Thus, Orville became a popular given name among the Norman nobility.
Over time, Orville became more common among the general population in England, although it remained relatively rare compared to other boy's names such as John or William. However, there are some notable individuals throughout history who have carried this distinctive name.
One of the most famous people named Orville was Orville Wright, the American aviation pioneer and businessman who, along with his brother Wilbur, invented and built the world's first successful airplane. Their flights at Kitty Hawk in North Carolina on December 17, 1903, marked a significant milestone in human history and paved the way for modern aviation.
Today, Orville continues to be used as a given name for boys in English-speaking countries around the world. While it may not be as popular as some other names, its unique sound and meaning make it an appealing choice for parents looking for something distinctive yet meaningful for their son.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Orville since 1880
Total births
155
Total since 1880
Peak year
1921
12 births
in 1934
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years