Melville is a masculine given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old German word "maGill", which means "smooth brow" or "chief". The name Melville was popularized by Herman Melville, an American writer best known for his novel "Moby-Dick".
The name Melville first appeared in England during the Middle Ages and was brought to America by early settlers. It has since become a popular choice among families with Scottish heritage.
The meaning of Melville is often associated with leadership and intelligence due to its derivation from the Old German word "maGill". However, it should be noted that the meaning of a name can vary depending on cultural and historical context.
Today, Melville remains a relatively uncommon given name, but it has been used by notable figures throughout history. For example, Sir Alexander Melville was a Scottish explorer and naturalist who accompanied Captain Robert Scott on his ill-fated expedition to the Antarctic in 1910-13. Additionally, Melville Davisson Post was an American writer known for his detective stories featuring Uncle Abner.
In popular culture, the name Melville has been used in various films, television shows, and books, including "The Muppet Show" and "Melville" by Jean Giono. Overall, the name Melville is associated with intelligence, leadership, and a sense of adventure.
The name Melville has seen a varied history of popularity over the years in the United States. In the late 19th century, from 1880 to 1900, there was an average of about 15 births per year with the name Melville. The number of births peaked at 44 in 1912 and reached a high of 77 in 1918.
However, the popularity of the name began to decline after World War I. By the 1930s, there were only about 25 to 35 births per year with the name Melville. This trend continued into the 1940s and 1950s, with fewer than 30 births per year.
Interestingly, the name saw a brief resurgence in popularity during the mid-1960s, with around 12 births each year from 1962 to 1968. However, this spike was short-lived, and by the late 1970s, there were fewer than five births per year with the name Melville.
In total, between 1880 and 1981, there were 2,269 babies born in the United States named Melville. While it may not be one of the most popular names today, its unique sound and historic popularity make it a compelling choice for parents looking for something distinctive.