Where Does the Gaven Surname Come From?

Genealogists group Gaven with Gavin. The name is generally explained as “Irish Ó Gáibhín”.

Gaven and Gavin

The two spellings differ in a small detail: Gaven has “e” where Gavin has “i”. Local scribes, dialects and emigration all left their mark on how the name was written. You may also find the name written Gavan, Gavine and Gauvin.

French birth records list 438 children named Gaven between 1891 and 2000.

Gaven coat of arms

Looking for a Gaven coat of arms? Arms were granted to families, not to surnames, and our research shows which heraldic tradition fits yours.

Want more than a summary? See the Gaven family name pack.