Ava is a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the word "chavah," which means "life." In the Bible, Chava was the first woman created by God and was responsible for naming all the animals in the Garden of Eden. Over time, the name has evolved into its current form, Ava.
The name Ava has been popular throughout history, with several notable figures bearing this name. One of the most famous Avas is Ava Gardner, an American actress known for her roles in films such as "The Sun Also Rises" and "Mogambo." Another well-known Ava is Ava Astor, a philanthropist and socialite who was a prominent figure in New York high society during the early 20th century.
Despite its Hebrew origins, Ava has been adopted by various cultures around the world. In Ireland, for example, it is often associated with Irish goddess names such as Aine or Anu. In France, it is sometimes used as a diminutive of the name Eva.
Today, Ava remains a popular choice among parents looking for a short, sweet, and meaningful name for their daughters. Its significance as a symbol of life makes it an appealing option for those who want to give their child a name with deep roots in history and culture. Whether you're drawn to its biblical origins or simply love the sound of it, Ava is a timeless name that will never go out of style.
The name Ava has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past century in the United States. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, it was relatively uncommon, with fewer than 65 births recorded per year between 1880 and 1927.
However, starting from the mid-1930s, there was a gradual rise in its popularity. Between 1933 and 1965, the number of annual Ava births fluctuated but generally stayed below 300.
The real surge in popularity came in the late 1980s and early 1990s. In 1987, there were 167 births, which increased to 175 in 1989. This was followed by a significant leap to 198 births in 1990.
This trend continued into the new millennium. Between 2000 and 2023, Ava has consistently been one of the top ten most popular girls' names in the U.S., with over 15,000 births recorded annually since 2006. The peak was reached in 2007 with 18,053 births.
In recent years, although its popularity has slightly decreased from its peak, Ava remains one of the most popular girls' names in America, with over 9,600 births recorded in 2023 alone. Overall, since records began until 2023, there have been a total of 327,483 babies named Ava born in the United States.