Graves

Graves originated as an English surname derived from Middle English 'grave' or 'greve,' referring to either a steward/bailiff or someone who lived near a grove of trees. As a masculine given name, it's extremely uncommon, representing a recent trend of adopting surnames as first names. Graves has a serious, dignified quality with literary connections to poet Robert Graves and fictional characters in various works. The name conveys strength and solemnity, perhaps influenced by its homonym relating to burial sites. Despite its rarity in contemporary usage, Graves might appeal to parents seeking a distinguished, unconventional name with Anglo-Saxon roots and a commanding presence.

Pronounced GRAYVZ.

As of October 2026, Graves ranked #12679 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #984 in 1887.