Alvin \a-lvin, al-vin\ as a boy's name is pronounced AL-vin. It is of Old English origin, and the meaning of Alvin is "elf or magical being, friend". Also possibly "precious friend". From Aelfwine. Radio characters Alvin and the Chipmunks have given the name an irresistably comical cast, however. Choreographer Alvin Ailey.
Alvin has 19 variant forms: Ailwyn, Al, Aloin, Aluin, Aluino, Alva, Alvan, Alven, Alvie, Alvy, Alvyn, Alwin, Alwyn, Alwynn, Aylwin, Elvin, Elwin, Elwyn and Elwynn.
For more information, see also the related name Alban.