Harvey

boyBretonChristian

Harvey is a boy name of Breton origin, meaning “Battle-worthy”.

MeaningBattle-worthy
GenderBoy
OriginBreton
PronunciationHAR-vee
TraditionModern & Classic, Christian
Used inUnited Kingdom, Australia, United States

Meaning and origin of Harvey

Harvey comes from the Breton name Haerviu, usually explained from haer, battle, and viu, worthy. It came to England with Bretons who joined the Norman Conquest. Saint Hervé, a blind sixth-century Breton hermit, made the name popular in Brittany. In England it became a surname and then a first name again, and it has been fashionable in Britain in recent decades.

Is Harvey a religious name?

Through Saint Hervé, a Breton saint, Harvey has a Christian connection, but it is now used mostly without religious meaning.

How popular is Harvey?

Popular in Britain and Australia; moderate in the United States.

Gifts with the name Harvey

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Spellings and variants of Harvey

HervéHarvieHervey

Names similar to Harvey

HenryHarrisonArchieAlfie

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Harvey mean?

Harvey means 'Battle-worthy'. It is of Breton origin.

Does Harvey have a religious meaning?

Through Saint Hervé, a Breton saint, Harvey has a Christian connection, but it is now used mostly without religious meaning.

How do you pronounce Harvey?

Harvey is pronounced HAR-vee.

Is Harvey a boy or girl name?

Harvey is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.