Ava

חָוָה

• Gender: Female
• Origin: Biblical English
• Meaning: to breathe, to live

• Ava is one of those names whose precise origin is delightfully debated. Some trace it to a Germanic root, while others see it as a sleek modern evolution of Chava — the Hebrew name for Eve, the very first woman in the Torah. That possible biblical thread means Ava could be one of the oldest names on earth dressed up in three of the most fashionable letters going, which is a pretty irresistible combination.

  Year after year, this name holds its spot as a top-ten darling, and its staying power speaks to an almost magnetic simplicity. For Jewish families, the possible connection to Chava adds a secret layer of depth that only those in the know will catch. A name that works in every language, looks gorgeous on a birth announcement, and quietly honors the mother of all living.

• Alternate Spellings: Avah
• Hebrew Equivalent:
  Chava
• Potential Sibling Name:
  Elisa
  ,
  Gabrielle
  ,
  Jesse
  ,
  Danny
• Theme: life