Avon is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the name of the River Avon, which flows through the city of Bath in southwest England. The river's name is believed to have come from the Old English word "Afyn," meaning "river." Therefore, the name Avon can be translated as "from the river."
The use of Avon as a given name is relatively modern, with its popularity growing significantly in the latter half of the 20th century. It was particularly popular among parents seeking unique and non-traditional names for their children during this time.
While there is no specific historical figure associated with the name Avon, it has been used by several notable individuals throughout history. One famous bearer of the name is Avon Products, Inc., a multinational manufacturer and marketer of beauty products that was founded in 1886.
In literature, Avon is also the surname of the fictional character Sir Percy Blakeney, the Scarlet Pimpernel, created by Baroness Emmuska Orczy in her 1905 novel "The Scarlet Pimpernel." This popular hero was known for his daring rescues and became a symbol of courage and chivalry during the French Revolution.
Overall, Avon is an intriguing given name with a strong connection to its river namesake. Its unique sound and historical ties make it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a memorable name for their child.
The name Avon has been given to a total of 700 babies in the United States since 1914. The most popular year for the name was 1924, with 22 births. However, the name's popularity has fluctuated over time, with some years having as few as 5 births (1965 and 1982). Despite these fluctuations, Avon remains a unique and distinctive name choice.