Purvis is a unique and uncommon given name of English origin. The name Purvis is derived from the Old French word "pourvoyeur," which means "provider" or "supporter." It is also sometimes associated with the Middle English surname Purves, which was derived from the name of a locality meaning "from Purvey's settlement."
The name Purvis has a rich history and has been used by several notable figures throughout history. For instance, Sir William Purvis, 1st Baronet, was a British businessman who played a significant role in the development of the textile industry in Yorkshire during the 19th century.
Despite its English origins, the name Purvis is not particularly common in English-speaking countries today. However, it has been used by families across various cultures and backgrounds, making it a unique and diverse choice for a given name. While there are no specific traditions or rituals associated with the name Purvis, those who bear this name may appreciate its distinctive sound and uncommon origin.
In conclusion, Purvis is an intriguing and uncommon given name of English origin that means "provider" or "supporter." With a history dating back to medieval times and notable figures throughout history, the name Purvis has earned its place as a unique and diverse choice for a child's name.
The name Purvis has been a part of American naming history for over a century, with the first recorded birth occurring in 1900 and the most recent in 1996. Throughout this period, there have been a total of 969 babies named Purvis.
Looking at the data year by year provides some interesting insights into the popularity of this name over time. In the early years, from 1900 to 1920, the number of births remained relatively low, with fewer than 20 Purvises born each year. However, there was a significant increase in popularity between 1921 and 1935, during which time there were more than 18 births per year on average.
The peak years for the name Purvis occurred in the late 1920s and early 1930s. In 1927 alone, there were 19 babies named Purvis, representing the highest number of births recorded during this time period. This trend continued into the mid-1930s, with 20 births in 1935 being the second-highest total for any single year.
After this peak period, the popularity of the name Purvis began to decline steadily. Between 1940 and 1970, there were an average of around 12 births per year, with fluctuations ranging from a low of six in 1968 to a high of 16 in 1965.
In more recent years, the name Purvis has become even less common. From 1980 onwards, there have been fewer than ten births per year on average, with some years seeing as few as five or six babies named Purvis. Despite this decline in popularity, it is noteworthy that the name has continued to appear among American baby names for nearly a century.
Overall, while the name Purvis may not be particularly popular today, its long history of usage in the United States demonstrates that it has held a steady place in American naming traditions throughout much of the 20th century.