Garvan
Boy name · English · Gaelic · Irish
Meaninglittle rough one · Irish
Garvan is an English and Gaelic boy name meaning “little rough one”, with Irish roots. Irish names are loved for their lilting sound and their links to Celtic saints and legends. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds crisp and confident, it's simple to spell and say, and it pairs well with middle names of almost any length.
Did you know?
- Hidden namesLook closely: Garvan has the name Van hiding inside it.
Fewer than 5 US babies a year get this name, so SSA doesn't list it. That makes it truly rare.
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Popularity: U.S. Social Security Administration (babies with 5+ births per year).
About the name Garvan
Garvan is a boy name of English, Gaelic and Irish origin meaning “little rough one”. Its two syllables give it an easy rhythm, and the consonant at the end gives it a confident finish. It's a rare choice in the US, so your child is unlikely to meet another Garvan at school.
Origin:English namesGaelic namesIrish names
More English boy names
- Boy name: Oliver · olive tree
- Boy name: Henry · ruler of the home
- Unisex name: James · supplanter
- Boy name: William · resolute protector
- Boy name: Benjamin · son of the right hand
- Boy name: Jack · God is gracious
- Unisex name: Hudson · son of Hudde
- Unisex name: Julian · of the Julius family
Questions about the name Garvan
What does the name Garvan mean?
Garvan means “little rough one” and comes from Irish. Other boy names with a similar meaning include Larkin (“rough, fierce”) and Garbhan (“little rough one”).
What is the origin of the name Garvan?
Garvan is English, Gaelic and Irish in origin. Names often travel between languages and cultures, which is why Garvan turns up in more than one tradition. Other English names to consider are Oliver (“olive tree”), Henry (“ruler of the home”), James (“supplanter”) and William (“resolute protector”).
Is Garvan a boy or girl name?
Garvan is a boy name.
What names are similar to Garvan?
If you like Garvan, you might also like Larkin and Garbhan.
What should I know before naming my baby Garvan?
Garvan is an English and Gaelic boy name meaning “little rough one”, with Irish roots. Irish names are loved for their lilting sound and their links to Celtic saints and legends. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds crisp and confident, it's simple to spell and say, and it pairs well with middle names of almost any length. Say it out loud with your last name and any middle names you're considering, and check the initials it makes.