Porthleven (EN) / Porthelvan (KW)

Type: 
Settlement
Parish: 
Porthleven
Hundred: 
Kerrier
Notes: 
The name is often interpreted as ‘Smooth Harbour’, but Porthleven is the only South-west facing harbour in Cornwall. the name is believed to be linked to St Elvan, where there was land belonging to the Church.
Elements: 

Elvan

This refers to the name of a person: 
name

porth

Meaning: 
cove, gate, harbour
Elements notes: 
<porth> 'cove, entrance, landing place' +Elvan saint's name
Historic forms: 
Porthleven 1529, Porth Levan 1584, Port-levan c1605.