Surname Irving - Meaning and Origin

Unraveling the Meaning of ‘Irving’: Discovery of Identity and Heritage through iGENEA DNA Test

Exploring my ancestry through the iGENEA DNA test was a revelatory experience. It transformed my understanding of my surname 'Irving'. The name I once took for granted was now a legacy, a connection to a rich and diverse lineage that molds my identity and heritage. In this personalized journey of discovery, I've learned how my individuality is built on a foundation of shared ancestry and heritage.

M. Irving

Irving: What does the surname Irving mean?

Irving is a Scottish surname with Ango-Saxon origins, derived from the given name "John" or "Erin". It was originally used to denote a person from the town of Irvine in North Ayrshire, Scotland. The name of the town is derived from a Celtic river-name with probable meanings of either "green water" or "fresh water". Thus, the last name Irving also carries connotations of "green or fresh water". It has sometimes been associated with the Gaelic term 'iarruinn' meaning west, suggesting direction or location. The name has been adapted over centuries and across regions, depending on local dialects and languages, appearing in various forms such as Irvine, Irving, Irwin, Erwin, and Ervine. Many Irvings are of Scottish descent, but the name has also spread to other English-speaking countries such as the United States and Canada through emigration.

Irving: Where does the name Irving come from?

The surname Irving originates from Scotland, specifically from the old parish of Dumfriesshire on the Scottish borders region. It is believed to be a geographical surname, derived from the lands around the 'River Irvine' or from a place named Irving in Dumfriesshire. The name means "green water," with "irin" being Gaelic for "fresh" or "green" and "abh" meaning "water."

The surname spread to other parts of the British Isles and to countries where the Scottish diaspora settled. Today, Irving is quite common in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and England. It is also somewhat common in Scotland, but less so than in previous centuries due to population movement and migration. The Irving surname has been adopted by different ethnic groups for various reasons, meaning not all bearers of the surname necessarily have Scottish ancestry. Notable people with the surname Irving include the authors Washington Irving and John Irving, and the professional basketball player Kyrie Irving.

Variations of the surname Irving

The surname Irving has variations in both spelling and pronunciation, based on geographic locations and periods of historical usage. It is of Scottish origins, believed to have been derived from the place 'Ervyn', located on the borders of Scotland and England.

The different spellings of the name include Irvine, Irvin, Ervin, Ervine, Irwin, Urwin, Erwin, Irwing, Erwing, and Eurvin. Some families have added an 'e' at the end or altered the vowels in the surname.

Though the original surname is Scottish, it has been known to merge with some Irish surnames due to migration and intermarriage. Therefore, it is possible to encounter Irish variations such as Irwyn, Irwen, and Irvin.

The surname Irving is also commonly used as a first name in some cultures. A significant number of individuals carry it as a sobriquet, such as the famous American author Washington Irving.

It's also worth mentioning that a significant number of African-Americans carry the surname Irving, possibly due to black slaves who took the surname of their masters post-emancipation or descendants of mixed-race unions during the colonial period.

Overall, these variations demonstrate how this surname has been adapted over history and moved across cultures.

Famous people with the name Irving

• Kobe Bryant: NBA player for the Los Angeles Lakers
• Kyrie Irving: NBA player for the Brooklyn Nets
• Washington Irving: American author and diplomat
• Katherine Irving: British actress
• Eddie Irving: British swimmer
• Dave Irving: British film producer
• John Irving: American novelist
• Jack Irving: British actor
• Kelechi Osemele: NFL player for the Las Vegas Raiders
• Brendan Irving: Australian rules footballer
• Richard Irving: cricketer from Ireland
• Hannah Irving: British actress
• Paul Irving: former Vice Chairman of the NASDAQ
• Loren Irving: former Canadian politician
• Laura Irving: British television actor
• John Rushworth Jellicoe, 1st Earl Jellicoe: former First Sea Lord of the Royal Navy
• John Irving: English footballer
• Rebecca Irving: British Paralympic athlete
• Jim Irving: Canadian businessman
• Isiah Irving: Australian rules footballer

Other surnames

IrvinIrvine