Melville Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Melville
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name MELVILLE. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Melville
Gender
Male
Origin
Celtic
Lucky Number
9
Meaning of the Name
Melville is a masculine name of Celtic origin meaning 'leader' or 'chief settlement.' It carries associations of authority and guidance while maintaining connections to Scottish heritage and literary tradition.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Mars
Positive Nature
Generous, passionate, energetic, and humanitarian.
Negative Traits
Impulsive, impatient, moody, and can be overly emotional.
Lucky Colours
Red, maroon, scarlet.
Lucky Days
Tuesday.
Lucky Stones
Red coral, garnet.
Harmony Numbers
1, 2, 3, 6.
Best Suited Professions
Military, sports, philanthropy, leadership roles.
What People Like About You
Courage, energy, leadership, generosity.
Famous People Named Melville
Herman Melville
Author
Wrote the classic novel 'Moby-Dick' and other significant works of American literature
Andrew Melville
Theologian and Reformer
Leading figure in the Scottish Reformation and principal of the University of Glasgow
Melville J. Herskovits
Anthropologist
Founded the first African Studies program in the United States and pioneered African-American anthropology
Melville Weston Fuller
Chief Justice
Served as the eighth Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court for 22 years
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
In literary circles, the name gained international recognition through Herman Melville, whose works explored profound themes of human nature, morality, and the struggle against natural forces, cementing the name's association with intellectual depth and artistic achievement. The Melville name also appears in academic and scientific contexts, with several notable scholars and researchers bearing the name across generations. This cultural legacy makes Melville a name that bridges traditional Celtic heritage with modern intellectual and artistic achievement, representing a continuity of thoughtful leadership and creative expression across centuries.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Melville are often perceived as strong, intellectual leaders with a natural authority and contemplative nature. They tend to possess deep analytical abilities and a philosophical outlook on life, often showing interest in complex ideas and moral questions. Melville's typically demonstrate resilience and determination when facing challenges, combined with a quiet confidence that inspires trust in others. Their leadership style is often characterized by thoughtful consideration rather than impulsive action, and they value integrity and principle over popularity.
Many Melville's exhibit a creative or artistic streak, whether in writing, academic pursuits, or other intellectual endeavors, and they often have a strong sense of purpose that drives their life's work. While they can be reserved in social situations, they form deep, meaningful relationships with those who share their intellectual curiosity and values. The name suggests someone who is both grounded in tradition and open to new ideas, capable of bridging different perspectives while maintaining their core principles. This combination of intellectual depth, moral strength, and creative vision makes Melville's natural leaders in fields that require both analytical thinking and human understanding.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary times, Melville remains an uncommon but distinguished choice for boys, often selected by parents seeking a name with literary prestige and Celtic heritage. While it peaked in popularity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries following Herman Melville's literary fame, it has maintained a steady, if rare, presence in English-speaking countries. The name is particularly favored in Scotland and among families with Scottish ancestry, where it serves as both a first name and surname. Modern usage often reflects parents' appreciation for classic literature and their desire to give their child a name with intellectual and historical weight. In recent decades, variations like Melvyn have seen slightly more frequent use, but Melville itself remains a distinctive choice that stands out without being overly unusual. The name continues to be associated with sophistication and depth, appealing to parents who value tradition but seek something less common than mainstream choices.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Melville represents intellectual depth, moral complexity, and the human struggle against overwhelming forces. The name evokes images of the sea and exploration, both literal and metaphorical, drawing from Herman Melville's maritime themes. It symbolizes the quest for truth and meaning in a complex world, as well as the tension between human ambition and natural limits. Melville also carries connotations of leadership with integrity, reflecting its meaning of 'leader' or 'chief' while suggesting a thoughtful, principled approach to authority. The name embodies the idea of perseverance through adversity and the value of deep contemplation over superficial action. In a broader sense, Melville represents the blending of cultures and traditions—Celtic roots with Norman influences—symbolizing the richness that comes from cultural synthesis and historical continuity. This symbolic depth makes the name particularly resonant for those who value both tradition and the ongoing human search for meaning and understanding.