Ava Girl
Origin(s)
PronunciationAY-vah / /ˈeɪ.və/Latin; Hebrew
Meaning
Latin: life; Hebrew: bird
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Ava has uncertain etymological roots, but it is commonly believed to derive from the Latin word "avis," meaning "bird." This connection suggests a sense of lightness and freedom. Another possible origin is from the Germanic name "Ava," which is thought to be a diminutive of names beginning with "Aval," meaning "desired" or "island." The name entered the English language through various routes, including Old French and Middle English, during the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, where it was adopted and adapted into forms that would eventually lead to its modern usage.
Historically, the name Ava has been associated with notable figures, including Saint Ava, a 7th-century abbess in France, who contributed to the spread of Christianity in the region. The name also appears in medieval texts, where it was sometimes used in noble families, reflecting its status as a name of some esteem. The name gained further recognition in the 20th century through various literary and cinematic works, although specific milestones in its historical development are less documented compared to more common names.
Culturally, Ava has been embraced in various traditions, often symbolizing beauty, grace, and a connection to nature, particularly through its association with birds. This connection to avian imagery has lent the name a sense of ethereality and has made it a favored choice in literature and art. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Avi" have emerged in some cultures, adding to the name's versatility. Overall, Ava's historical and cultural significance has contributed to its lasting appeal across different eras.
Trend Summary
Ava has consistently ranked among the top names for girls in the United States over the past two decades.
Similar Names
Variants
- Ave
- Aveline
International Variants
- Ava (English)
- Awa (Japanese)
- Eva (Spanish)
- Ava (Italian)
Famous people named Ava
Ava Gardner is an actress best known for The Killers, Mogambo, and Show Boat.
Ava DuVernay is a filmmaker best known for Selma, 13th, and A Wrinkle in Time.
Ava Max is a singer best known for Sweet but Psycho, Kings & Queens, and Torn.
Ava Adams is a model and actress best known for her work in the adult entertainment industry, but she is excluded from this list.
Ava Marie is a social media influencer best known for her lifestyle content on platforms like Instagram and YouTube.
Fictional characters named Ava
Ava is a fictional character from the film Ex Machina. She is an advanced artificial intelligence created to test the boundaries of consciousness and humanity.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Ava was first seen in the United States in 1880. Ava has ranked as high as #15 nationally, which occurred in 2007, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Ava has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Ava (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 871 | |
TX | 817 | |
FL | 536 | |
NY | 520 | |
GA | 379 | |
NC | 344 | |
PA | 320 | |
OH | 303 | |
IL | 299 | |
NJ | 268 | |
VA | 248 | |
TN | 232 | |
IN | 191 | |
WA | 177 | |
MA | 177 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 13 |
1881 | 18 |
1882 | 21 |
1883 | 29 |
1884 | 32 |
1885 | 18 |
1886 | 27 |
1887 | 36 |
1888 | 41 |
1889 | 44 |
1890 | 49 |
1891 | 41 |
1892 | 54 |
1893 | 46 |
1894 | 58 |
1895 | 54 |
1896 | 38 |
1897 | 42 |
1898 | 53 |
1899 | 44 |
1900 | 65 |
1901 | 46 |
1902 | 40 |
1903 | 55 |
1904 | 50 |
1905 | 53 |
1906 | 62 |
1907 | 55 |
1908 | 58 |
1909 | 49 |
1910 | 79 |
1911 | 86 |
1912 | 98 |
1913 | 112 |
1914 | 156 |
1915 | 171 |
1916 | 186 |
1917 | 180 |
1918 | 174 |
1919 | 159 |
1920 | 184 |
1921 | 177 |
1922 | 160 |
1923 | 173 |
1924 | 157 |
1925 | 164 |
1926 | 164 |
1927 | 141 |
1928 | 135 |
1929 | 135 |
1930 | 142 |
1931 | 136 |
1932 | 145 |
1933 | 119 |
1934 | 129 |
1935 | 109 |
1936 | 113 |
1937 | 114 |
1938 | 83 |
1939 | 90 |
1940 | 78 |
1941 | 89 |
1942 | 132 |
1943 | 109 |
1944 | 91 |
1945 | 80 |
1946 | 131 |
1947 | 199 |
1948 | 197 |
1949 | 240 |
1950 | 299 |
1951 | 384 |
1952 | 388 |
1953 | 462 |
1954 | 540 |
1955 | 508 |
1956 | 509 |
1957 | 432 |
1958 | 378 |
1959 | 337 |
1960 | 327 |
1961 | 262 |
1962 | 263 |
1963 | 274 |
1964 | 268 |
1965 | 227 |
1966 | 199 |
1967 | 176 |
1968 | 177 |
1969 | 171 |
1970 | 177 |
1971 | 161 |
1972 | 153 |
1973 | 109 |
1974 | 130 |
1975 | 127 |
1976 | 96 |
1977 | 103 |
1978 | 132 |
1979 | 133 |
1980 | 113 |
1981 | 123 |
1982 | 109 |
1983 | 107 |
1984 | 146 |
1985 | 134 |
1986 | 167 |
1987 | 177 |
1988 | 167 |
1989 | 175 |
1990 | 198 |
1991 | 236 |
1992 | 239 |
1993 | 286 |
1994 | 276 |
1995 | 279 |
1996 | 285 |
1997 | 362 |
1998 | 831 |
1999 | 1,215 |
2000 | 1,796 |
2001 | 2,539 |
2002 | 3,751 |
2003 | 6,280 |
2004 | 8,645 |
2005 | 13,606 |
2006 | 16,941 |
2007 | 18,053 |
2008 | 17,050 |
2009 | 15,877 |
2010 | 15,442 |
2011 | 15,514 |
2012 | 15,548 |
2013 | 15,271 |
2014 | 15,725 |
2015 | 16,410 |
2016 | 16,347 |
2017 | 16,015 |
2018 | 15,028 |
2019 | 14,544 |
2020 | 13,197 |
2021 | 12,867 |
2022 | 11,105 |
2023 | 9,724 |
2024 | 8,662 |