Erving is a name of Dutch origin, derived from the place name "Erve," which means "heritance" or "inheritance." The name has been used as both a given name and a surname for centuries.
The earliest known use of the name Erving as a given name was in the Netherlands during the 17th century. It was often used among the Dutch nobility, who would give their children names with historical or geographical significance. Over time, the name spread beyond the Netherlands and became more common throughout Europe.
One notable bearer of the name Erving was Erving Goffin (1882-1946), a Belgian painter known for his landscapes and portraits. Goffin was born into a wealthy family and studied art in Paris before returning to Belgium to pursue his career as an artist.
Today, Erving remains relatively uncommon as a given name, but it continues to be used occasionally throughout Europe and North America. It is often seen among families of Dutch descent or those with a connection to the Netherlands.
In terms of meaning, the name Erving conveys a sense of heritage and tradition. Its origins in the concept of inheritance suggest that it is associated with ideas of continuity and legacy. However, like all names, its ultimate significance will depend on how it is used and interpreted by each individual who bears it.
The name Erving experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a peak of 22 births recorded in 1919. It appears that the name was most commonly used between 1881 and 1934, with periods of increased popularity around 1915-1925 and again briefly in the late 1980s to early 1990s. However, it seems that the name has become quite uncommon in recent years, with fewer than 10 births recorded annually since 2007. Overall, there were a total of 940 babies named Erving from 1881 to 2018.