Gavin
Gavin is a boy name of Welsh, Scottish origin meaning “White hawk”, pronounced GAV-in. It ranked #303 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,125 babies, and peaked at #30 in 2008. Common nicknames: Gav, Vinny.
How popular is Gavin in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Gavin mean, and where does it come from?
Gavin is the anglicized form of the medieval name Gawain, derived from the Welsh "Gwalchgwn" meaning "white hawk" or "hawk of the battle." In Arthurian legend, Sir Gawain was one of the Knights of the Round Table and a nephew of King Arthur, renowned for his courtesy and bravery. The name has been particularly popular in Scotland, where it has been in use since the Middle Ages. Gavin gained broader popularity in the United States during the 1990s and 2000s, prized for its blend of Celtic heritage and modern appeal.
How is Gavin used around the world?
Gavin is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 4+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Gavin?
Famous People Named Gavin
- Gavin Rossdale — British musician and lead singer of Bush
- Gavin Newsom — Governor of California
- Gavin DeGraw — American singer-songwriter
Similar Names to Gavin
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Sibling Name Ideas for Gavin
Looking for names that pair well with Gavin? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Gavin mean?
Gavin is a boy name of Welsh, Scottish origin meaning "White hawk." Gavin is the anglicized form of the medieval name Gawain, derived from the Welsh "Gwalchgwn" meaning "white hawk" or "hawk of the battle." In Arthurian legend, Sir Gawain was one of the Knights of the Round Table and a nephew of King Arthur, renowned for his courtesy and bravery.
How do you pronounce Gavin?
Gavin is pronounced GAV-in. Common variations include Gaven, Gawen, Gavyn.
Is Gavin a boy name?
Yes, Gavin is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Gav, Vinny.