Council friend or gentle lord
Melvyn is a variant of Melvin, likely derived from the Germanic elements 'mal' meaning council and 'win' meaning friend. It may also be linked to the Gaelic 'Maol-mhin', meaning gentle chieftain or smooth brow. The name gained popularity in the early 20th century but has since become a rare vintage choice.
Less common today
Melvyn isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #4,345 in 2002.
Academy Award-winning actor
British broadcaster and parliamentarian
Renowned cancer biologist
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
