Ava

Ava is a feminine given name with multiple independent origins. In Latin, it is sometimes linked to avis, meaning bird, and the name has been used in various European languages since the 19th century. A second origin is from the Hebrew name Aviva, meaning spring or renewal, with Ava often functioning as a short form or derivative. In some cases, Ava is treated as a variant of Eva/Eve, a lineage that also contributes to its use in Western cultures. The name's perceived simplicity and soft sound have contributed to its broad popularity in many English-speaking countries in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom, where it has ranked highly among girls' names.

Notable people named Ava include the American actress Ava Gardner (1922–1990), whose stardom in classic cinema helped popularize the name; the filmmaker Ava DuVernay (born 1972), a leading figure in contemporary American cinema and television; and the pop singer Ava Max (born 1994), known for international hits such as "Sweet but Psycho." Ava is also used in popular culture as the title of the 2020 action thriller film Ava, starring Jessica Chastain.

There are related names and variations such as Eva, Eve, Avis, and Aviva, reflecting the name’s multiple cultural influences.