- Gender: Primarily feminine
- Origin: Latin, Persian, Germanic
- Meaning: “Life,” “bird-like,” “voice,” or “desired”
- Pronunciation: AY-vuh
Meaning of the Name Ava
The name Ava carries several beautiful meanings depending on its cultural origins. In Latin, it’s connected to avis, meaning “bird,” suggesting qualities of freedom and grace. In Persian, Ava means “voice” or “sound,” often associated with a melodious quality. Germanic roots connect it to “desired” or “life,” symbolizing vitality and being cherished.
Historical Significance of Ava
Ava has roots stretching back centuries. It was popular among early medieval European nobility, particularly in Germany. Saint Ava was an 8th-century figure who was said to have been cured of blindness. The name saw a decline in usage for many years before experiencing a dramatic resurgence in the early 2000s, partly influenced by celebrities choosing it for their daughters.
Common Nicknames for Ava
- Av
- Avie
- Ave
- Avs
- Vava
How Popular Is Ava?
Ava has been consistently ranking in the top 10 girls’ names in the United States since 2005. It peaked at #3 in 2016 and has remained incredibly popular. In the UK, Australia, and Canada, it has also maintained top 20 positions in recent years. The name’s simplicity, international appeal, and soft sound have contributed to its widespread popularity.
Famous People Named Ava
- Ava Gardner (iconic Hollywood actress)
- Ava DuVernay (acclaimed film director)
- Ava Max (singer-songwriter)
- Ava Phillippe (daughter of actors Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe)
- Ava Sambora (actress and daughter of Richie Sambora)
- Ava Kolker (child actress)
Fictional Characters Named Ava
- Ava Sharpe (from TV series “DC’s Legends of Tomorrow”)
- Ava Benson (from the novel “The Silent Patient”)
- Ava Lord (from “Sin City” graphic novels and film)
- Ava Morgenstern (from “Girl Meets World”)
- Ava Starr/Ghost (from Marvel’s “Ant-Man and the Wasp”)
Ava in Literature and Pop Culture
Ava has appeared in numerous books, films, and TV shows. The name often represents characters who are beautiful, intelligent, and strong-willed. In science fiction, Ava was memorably the name of the AI character in the film “Ex Machina,” giving the name a modern, technological association as well. The name has appeared in popular songs, including “Ava Adore” by The Smashing Pumpkins.
Personality Traits Associated with Ava
People named Ava are often perceived as:
- Creative and artistic
- Independent thinkers
- Naturally charismatic
- Determined and resilient
- Thoughtful and introspective
- Warm and approachable
- Having natural leadership qualities
Similar Names to Ava
- Eva
- Ada
- Isla
- Ivy
- Zara
- Mia
- Ella
Alternate Spellings for Ava
- Avah
- Avaeh
- Avva
- Avah
- Eva (in some languages)
Pronunciation Variations Around the World
- English: AY-vuh
- Spanish: AH-vah
- French: AH-vah (with a softer “v” sound)
- German: AH-fah (the “v” pronounced more like an “f”)
- Italian: AH-vah
Parents Who Like Ava Also Like
- Emma
- Olivia
- Sophia
- Isabella
- Mia
- Charlotte
- Amelia
Baby Name Lists That Include Ava
- Timeless Classic Names
- Short and Sweet Girls’ Names
- Names with Positive Meanings
- Vintage Names Making a Comeback
- International Names That Work in Multiple Languages
- Hollywood-Inspired Baby Names
- Names with Three or Four Letters
Ava for Both Genders
While Ava is predominantly used for girls, it can occasionally be found as a nickname for male names like Avaristo or Avalon in some cultures. However, in most Western countries, it’s almost exclusively feminine.
Sibling Name Ideas
For a sister:
- Lily, Sofia, Zoe, Ruby, Ella, Maya, Clara
For a brother:
- Noah, Ethan, Leo, Owen, Max, Liam, Henry
Names with the Same Meaning as Ava
- Zoe (means “life” in Greek)
- Eve (associated with “life”)
- Vivian (from Latin “vivus” meaning “alive”)
- Hayat (means “life” in Arabic)
- Vita (means “life” in Latin)
First Impressions of Ava
Ava typically creates an impression of someone who is:
- Elegant yet approachable
- Modern yet timeless
- Confident without being overbearing
- Creative and intelligent
- Warm and friendly
In professional settings, the name carries a subtle strength while maintaining femininity.
Celebrity Babies Named Ava
- Ava Eliot (daughter of Hugh Jackman)
- Ava Americana (daughter of Jeremy Renner)
- Ava Berlin (daughter of Jason Biggs)
- Ava Grace (daughter of Reese Witherspoon)
- Ava Rose (daughter of Martine McCutcheon)
Songs About Ava
- “Ava Adore” by The Smashing Pumpkins
- “Ava” by Famy
- “Dear Ava” by Illenium
- “Ava” by NEFFEX
- “Ava Maria” (various artists)
Famous Quotes About Ava
“Ava Gardner was the most beautiful woman in the world, and it’s wonderful that she didn’t cut up her face. She addressed aging by picking up her chin and receiving the light in a better way.” — Sharon Stone
“There was a real Ava in my life, and I loved her very much.” — Writer discussing character inspiration
Ava in Different Languages
- Hebrew: חוה (Chava/Hava)
- Arabic: آفا
- Japanese: アヴァ
- Russian: Ава
- Greek: Άβα
- Chinese: 艾娃 (Àiwá)
Name Combinations for Ava
- Ava Rose
- Ava Grace
- Ava Elizabeth
- Ava Catherine
- Ava Josephine
- Ava Marie
- Ava Madeline
Comments from Parents of Children Named Ava
“We chose Ava for our daughter because it’s simple but elegant. She’s now 7, and it fits her perfectly—short, sweet, and full of spunk just like her!”
“My daughter Ava is now in college. When we named her 18 years ago, it wasn’t nearly as popular as it is now. I still love the name, but sometimes wish she didn’t share it with so many in her generation.”
“Ava was my grandmother’s name, so it has special meaning for us. I love that it’s both traditional and modern at the same time.”
“Our little Ava is just learning to write her name and loves that it’s so simple with just three letters. The palindrome quality makes it fun for her to practice.”
“We debated between Eva and Ava for months before our daughter was born. When we met her, she was definitely an Ava—it just suited her instantly.”