Sir Gawain
Knight of King Arthur's Round Table known for chivalry and bravery in medieval literature.
IPA Pronunciation
/ɡæv/
Say It Like
Syllables
Gav is a diminutive form of the name Gavin, which originates from the medieval Welsh name Gawain, meaning 'white hawk' or 'little hawk'. The name Gawain is famously associated with Sir Gawain, a knight of King Arthur’s Round Table, symbolizing nobility and bravery. Over time, Gav emerged as a casual, friendly short form used primarily in English-speaking countries.
Cultural Significance of Gav
The name Gav, as a short form of Gavin, carries the legacy of medieval Welsh culture and Arthurian legend, where knights like Sir Gawain symbolized courage and honor. Historically, the name has been prevalent in the British Isles and has spread through English-speaking countries, often signaling a connection to chivalric ideals and nature symbolism through the 'white hawk'.
Gav Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Gav is a popular, informal, and approachable alternative to the more formal Gavin. It is favored by parents seeking a name that feels modern yet rooted in tradition. Its brevity and punchy sound make it popular in casual and social settings. While not among top baby name charts, Gav enjoys steady use, especially as a nickname or given name in its own right.
🔤
More Boy Names Starting With G10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Gav carries the essence of “Short form of 'Gavin', meaning 'white hawk' or 'little hawk'.” from Welsh/Medieval English tradition. Names beginning with "G" often embody qualities of wisdom, intuition, and spiritual insight.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
The name Gav, as a short form of Gavin, carries the legacy of medieval Welsh culture and Arthurian legend, where knights like Sir Gawain symbolized courage and honor. Historically, the name has been prevalent in the British Isles and has spread through English-speaking countries, often signaling a connection to chivalric ideals and nature symbolism through the 'white hawk'.
Gavin Douglas
Scottish poet and bishop, notable for translating Virgil’s Aeneid into Scots.
Gavril Princip
Bosnian Serb nationalist who assassinated Archduke Franz Ferdinand, triggering WWI.
Gavin Newsom
Politician
Gavin Rossdale
Musician
Gavin DeGraw
Singer-songwriter
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight ()
The Gavin & Stacey Show ()
The Secret Life of Us ()
Parents: Not applicable (celebrity himself)
Gav
🌐Spanish
Gav
🌐French
Gav
🌐German
Gav
🌐Italian
ガヴ (Gavu)
🌐Japanese
加夫 (Jiā fū)
🌐Chinese
غاف
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Gav
Gav, while a simple short form, connects directly to one of the most famous knights in Arthurian legend – Sir Gawain – celebrated for his bravery and loyalty.
Personality Traits for Gav
Individuals named Gav are often seen as confident, sociable, and adventurous. The name suggests a blend of strength and approachability, with a hint of playfulness. Gav personalities tend to be charismatic leaders who value loyalty and have a strong sense of honor, mirroring the noble qualities historically associated with the name’s origins.
What does the name Gav mean?
Gav is a Welsh/Medieval English name meaning “Short form of 'Gavin', meaning 'white hawk' or 'little hawk'.”. Gav is a diminutive form of the name Gavin, which originates from the medieval Welsh name Gawain, meaning 'white hawk' or 'little hawk'. The name Gawain is famously associated with Sir Gawain, a knight of King Arthur’s Round Table, symbolizing nobility and bravery. Over time, Gav emerged as a casual, friendly short form used primarily in English-speaking countries.
How do you pronounce Gav?
Gav is pronounced (IPA: /ɡæv/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Gav?
Popular nicknames for Gav include: Gavy, Gavster, G-Man, Gavvy, Gavro, Gavito, Vee, Gavvy Bear, Gavy-Poo, Gavino.
Who are famous people named Gav?
Famous people named Gav include: , , , Gavin Newsom, Gavin Rossdale.
Which celebrities named their baby Gav?
Celebrity babies named Gav include children of: Not applicable (celebrity himself).
✨
Article Coming Soon
Our writers are crafting a comprehensive guide
Gav is a beautiful Welsh/Medieval English name meaning “Short form of 'Gavin', meaning 'white hawk' or 'little hawk'.”. Gav is a diminutive form of the name Gavin, which originates from the medieval Welsh name Gawain, meaning 'white hawk' or 'little hawk'. The name Gawain is famously associated with Sir Gawain, a knigh...
Full article with history, famous namesakes, and naming tips coming soon!