Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Van

      Origin 
      American

      Meaning 
      From the Family of..

      Variations 
      Vance, Vanhi, Vania

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Van, which has its origins in America, carries a significant meaning derived from its Dutch heritage. Van, a shortened version of the Dutch name Van Der, signifies From the Family of in its literal translation. In Dutch culture, names like Van Der were used to indicate one's family background and lineage. Over time, Van has evolved into a standalone first name, gradually gaining popularity both in history and modern times.

      In history, the name Van can be traced back to Dutch immigrants who settled in America during the 17th and 18th centuries. These early settlers often used their names as a first name, thus introducing the name Van as a given name. This trend continued, and Van gained recognition as an independent name in American society. Today, Van is not only used as a given name but is also employed as a name. It is frequently encountered in diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, owing to its assimilation into American culture throughout generations.

      In modern-day usage, the name Van is widely embraced across various societies. Its simple yet resonant sound makes it a favored choice for parents seeking a masculine and timeless name. Moreover, Van's cross-cultural appeal continues to grow, as it is found across different continents and regions. The name's association with family heritage adds a touch of nostalgia and significance to those who bear it. From its humble origins as a Dutch name denoting family connection, the name Van has cemented its place in both history and contemporary usage.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Van.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Van.

      Mary

      is the most common spouse name for Van.

      Van

      is the most common child name for Van.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1916 is when there were the most people born with the first name Van.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.