Girls · #11 in 2025
Ava: Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Origin
- English, Persian, and Germanic traditions
- Meaning
- Varies by origin; English connection to Eve, Persian to voice or sound
- Pronunciation
- AY-vuh in English
- Nickname options
- Avie
Origin and meaning
Ava has several independent histories. In English it can be a form of Eve; the Persian name means voice or sound. A Germanic Ava also exists, with an uncertain root. A single meaning does not cover every family's use.
U.S. popularity
Ava ranked #11 for girls in the United States in 2025, with 7,732 girls given this spelling. Its highest recorded U.S. rank was #3, reached in 2016–2020. Historical coverage: 1880–2025. Peak refers to rank, not the largest number of births.
Source: Social Security Administration; historical peaks calculated from its national name files. Rankings count each spelling separately within the listed sex.
The Hello Baby Names take
Ava feels polished in a very effortless way. It's simple and straightforward, but still beautiful and refined. It suits parents who love a complete, feminine name that's not overly frilly or elaborate.
Things to consider
Ava and Eva can look similar on a list but sound different in many families. Say both aloud before settling on your preferred spelling.
If you love Ava, consider…
- Eva: A close visual cousin with a different opening sound.
- Ivy: Keeps the lively V in a compact shape.
- Mia: Offers the same small, complete feeling.
- Ella: Softens the sound while keeping two syllables.
- Isla: Another airy choice with a simple silhouette.
- Nora: Adds a little more consonant structure.
- Zoe: Brings a brighter, more energetic opening.
- Ada: Preserves Ava's rhythm with a gentler middle.