Origin and Meaning of Duval
Meaning & Origin
Of the valley
Origin: French - Derived from the Old French 'duval' meaning 'of the valley', a topographic surname indicating someone who lived near or in a valley.
Interesting Facts
- Duval was originally a surname before becoming used as a given name, often denoting family connections to specific geographical features.
- In various regions, particularly in France, it's common to find geographic surnames like Duval that describe the landscape surrounding the individual.
- Notable bearers include American musician and composer Dwayne Duval and actor Eric Duval, highlighting the name's presence in the arts.
- While primarily a surname, its use as a given name has been growing, particularly in the United States, though it remains relatively uncommon.
- Variations of the name include DuVall and Duvaul, as well as anglicized versions like Valley, showcasing the adaptability of the name.