Orval Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Orval
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name ORVAL. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Orval
Gender
Male
Origin
Christian
Lucky Number
5
Meaning of the Name
Orval is a Christian male name meaning 'spear-strength,' combining the protective power of a spear with enduring resilience. This name suggests someone who possesses both the ability to take decisive action and the strength to stand firm in their convictions.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Mercury
Positive Nature
Adventurous, dynamic, curious, and social.
Negative Traits
Restless, impatient, inconsistent, prone to indulgence.
Lucky Colours
Green, white.
Lucky Days
Wednesday.
Lucky Stones
Emerald.
Harmony Numbers
1, 3, 9.
Best Suited Professions
Sales, marketing, travel, entertainment.
What People Like About You
Versatility, charisma, adventurous spirit.
Famous People Named Orval
Orval Overall
Baseball Player
Chicago Cubs pitcher who threw a shutout in the 1908 World Series
Orval Faubus
Politician
Six-term Governor of Arkansas known for the Little Rock Nine school integration crisis
Orval H. Hansen
Politician
U.S. Representative from Idaho who served on the House Education Committee
Orval W. Baylor
Military Officer
U.S. Army Air Forces pilot awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
The name gained some recognition through notable bearers in American politics and sports, though it remained relatively uncommon compared to similar names like Orville. Its usage reflects a particular era of American naming conventions where invented or revived Old English names gained traction among certain communities. The name's association with figures like Governor Orval Faubus created complex cultural associations, particularly in the American South during the Civil Rights era. Despite these associations, the name maintains a certain antique charm that appeals to those interested in historical names with strong meanings.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Orval are often perceived as possessing a unique blend of traditional strength and quiet determination. The name's meaning of 'spear-strength' suggests someone who is both protective and resilient, capable of standing firm in their convictions while also being prepared to defend what they value. These individuals typically exhibit a grounded, practical nature combined with a strong sense of responsibility toward family and community. They often approach life with a methodical, careful attitude, preferring stability over unpredictability.
Orvals are frequently seen as reliable anchors in their social circles—the people others turn to in times of crisis. Their strength is often more internal than external, manifesting as emotional stability and consistent character rather than physical dominance. While they may not seek the spotlight, they often assume leadership roles through demonstrated competence and trustworthiness. The name carries connotations of old-fashioned virtues like loyalty, hard work, and integrity, and those who bear it often embody these qualities in their personal and professional lives. Their combination of strategic thinking (the spear) and enduring character (strength) makes them particularly effective in roles requiring both planning and perseverance.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary naming practices, Orval has become exceptionally rare, with usage largely confined to specific regional or family traditions rather than mainstream trends. The name hasn't experienced the vintage revival that has brought back many early 20th-century names, possibly due to its strong association with controversial historical figures and its distinctly old-fashioned sound that lacks the softer, more melodic quality currently popular. Modern parents who choose the name typically do so for family reasons or because they specifically seek uncommon names with strong meanings. Its current usage is most common as a middle name, where its distinctive quality can be appreciated without the burden of daily use. Demographic data shows the name appears occasionally in rural communities and among families with multi-generational naming traditions, but it remains outside the top 1000 names in all English-speaking countries.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Orval represents the powerful combination of directed action and enduring strength. The spear element symbolizes precision, purpose, and the ability to cut through complexity to reach essential truths, while the strength component represents resilience, stability, and the capacity to withstand adversity. This duality creates a rich symbolic meaning of someone who can both initiate change and maintain continuity—a valuable balance in both personal development and leadership. The name evokes the image of a guardian or protector who combines strategic intelligence with moral fortitude.
Metaphorically, Orval suggests an individual who understands both when to advance and when to stand firm, making them particularly suited for roles requiring both initiative and perseverance. The symbolic meaning extends beyond physical concepts to include intellectual sharpness and emotional resilience, representing a person whose inner strength guides their outward actions. In spiritual contexts, the name can symbolize the Christian ideal of being 'strong in the Lord' while actively engaging in spiritual warfare, making it particularly meaningful in religious families who value both faith and action.