The name Jarvis is derived from the Old French personal name Gervais, which itself comes from the ancient Germanic name Gervas. It means "spear" and has been associated with strength and honor. The name has been used both as a surname and a given name, with its popularity fluctuating over time. Initially, it was brought to England by the Normans after the 1066 conquest. It has been carried by notable individuals in various fields, including sports, and social activism.
