Girl name · Latin
Ava
“bird; life”
Vibes
Common nicknames
Short-forms and diminutives parents often use for Ava.
Explore Ava further
Similar-feel alternatives, or middle-name candidates that pair well with Ava — both ranked by the same scoring system (vibe overlap, syllable rhythm, origin compatibility).
About the name
Ava is likely a medieval short form of Germanic names in av-, tangled etymologically with the Latin avis (bird) and the Persian ava (voice, sound). Ava Gardner gave it the only origin story that mattered: pure Hollywood.
Ava has held the American top five since 2005, sitting second in 2024 — maximal glamour in minimal letters.
Three letters, two syllables, one raised eyebrow: Ava is the most economical elegance in the book. It pairs well with longer middles (Ava Josephine, Ava Magnolia) that let it play the diamond stud. On our vibe map it is Modern Minimalist wearing Vintage Elegant lipstick.
More Latin names
Ava sits in our Latin set — these share its roots.
All Latin names →Ava — common questions
Is Ava a boy or girl name?
Ava is traditionally a girl name of Latin origin. It ranked #11 among US girls' names in 2025.
What does the name Ava mean?
Ava means “bird; life” of Latin origin. Ava is likely a medieval short form of Germanic names in av-, tangled etymologically with the Latin avis (bird) and the Persian ava (voice, sound). Ava Gardner gave it the only origin story that mattered: pure Hollywood.
Where does the name Ava come from?
Ava is Latin in origin. Ava has held the American top five since 2005, sitting second in 2024 — maximal glamour in minimal letters.
What are common nicknames for Ava?
Ave and Aves — the short-forms parents most often use for Ava.
How popular is Ava?
Ava ranked #11 in US Social Security Administration data for 2025, which puts it solidly in everyday use.
Bring the name into the room
A couple of nice things named Ava you might want for the nursery.