Gavin Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Gavin come from? What does the surname Gavin mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Gavin and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Gavin Origin: What does the last name Gavin mean?
The surname Gavin is of Celtic origin and is a Scottish variation of the medieval Welsh name Gawain, meaning "God send" or "white hawk." It is associated with Sir Gawain, a knight of King Arthur's Round Table, known for his bravery and chivalry. The name Gavin first appeared in records from Scotland during the 17th century, and it remained closely associated with Scotland, the United States, and Ireland from the 17th to the 19th centuries. By the 20th century, the Gavin surname had spread significantly, with notable presence in countries like the United States, Ireland, Scotland, England, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and France.
YourRoots data confirms the enduring presence of the Gavin surname across various countries worldwide, showcasing its remarkable global reach and significance. The surname Gavin has a rich history and is linked to Scottish and Celtic heritage, symbolizing qualities of strength, courage, and nobility. It continues to be a prominent surname in diverse regions and cultures, reflecting a legacy of valor and tradition that transcends borders and generations.
Gavin Last Name History: Where did the last name Gavin come from?
Origin of Gavin Surname: Where does the last name Gavin originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Gavin first appeared in records from Scotland during the 17th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Gavin spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Gavin: What does the Gavin surname history look like in the early days?
The Gavin surname remained closely associated with Scotland, United States, and Ireland from the 17th to the 19th centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Gavin surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Gavin surname grew significantly in the United States. The Gavin surname remains prominent in the United States, Ireland, Scotland, England, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and France. It appears in many countries around the world.
Explore Gavin last name heritage and Gavin surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Gavin Surame?
John Gavin
John Gavin (Juan Vincent Apablasa) was an American actor and diplomat born on April 8, 1931, in Los Angeles. He became well-known for his roles in classic films like "Psycho," "Spartacus," and "Imitation of Life." Gavin also served as the president of the Screen Actors Guild and later as the United States Ambassador to Mexico. With a background in economics and military service in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, Gavin had a diverse career that spanned both the entertainment industry and international diplomacy. He passed away on February 9, 2018, leaving behind a legacy of talent and public service.
James M. Gavin
James Maurice Gavin (Mar 22, 1907 – Feb 23, 1990) was a renowned United States Army general known for his leadership during World War II. Nicknamed "Jumpin' Jim" and "the jumping general," Gavin was the youngest major general to command an American division during the war. His daring combat jumps with the 82nd Airborne Division earned him the title of "The Jumping General." Gavin also worked against segregation in the U.S. Army and later served as the U.S. Ambassador to France. His legacy as a fearless leader and advocate for equality continues to inspire generations.
Katie Gavin
Catherine Hope Gavin is an American singer-songwriter and musician known for her work with the pop band MUNA. Born in Winnetka, Illinois, Gavin gained fame with viral covers during her time at New Trier High School. She later formed MUNA at the University of Southern California. In 2024, Gavin released her debut solo album "What a Relief" to critical acclaim. She has been praised for her unique sound, drawing inspiration from artists like Alanis Morissette and Fiona Apple. As an openly lesbian artist, Gavin's music explores themes of love, identity, and mental health.
Andy Gavin
Andrew Scott Gavin (June 11, 1970 - ) is an American video game programmer, entrepreneur, and novelist. He co-founded Naughty Dog, known for popular games like Crash Bandicoot and Jak and Daxter. Gavin's innovative work in game development and programming languages led to the company's success. After selling Naughty Dog to Sony, he continued to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, including a social game startup and writing dark historical fantasy novels. Gavin's contributions to the gaming industry have left a lasting impact on the world of interactive entertainment.
Erica Gavin
Erica Gavin (Donna Graff; July 22, 1947) is an American film actress known for her role in Russ Meyer's 1968 film Vixen!. Born in Los Angeles, California, Gavin started her career as a topless dancer and later transitioned to acting, starring in cult classics like Beyond the Valley of the Dolls and Caged Heat. Despite not achieving mainstream success, Gavin remains a beloved figure in the world of independent cinema. She currently works as a stylist in LA and occasionally makes appearances at movie memorabilia conventions. Gavin's bold performances and unique charm have solidified her as a cult icon in the film industry.
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