Best names WITH a V -

  1. Leva
    • Description:

      Leva is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Hebrew, it relates to "lioness," suggesting strength and courage. It also appears as a variant of Levi or as a Slavic name meaning "left-handed." In Sanskrit traditions, it connects to meanings of "embrace" or "heart." Leva has remained quite uncommon in English-speaking countries, maintaining an air of mystery and uniqueness. The name's brevity and melodic quality make it appealing for parents seeking something distinctive yet simple to pronounce. With its cross-cultural presence and gentle sound, Leva offers a rare choice that carries subtle strength and beauty without being widely recognized.
  2. Kiva
    • Origin:

      Hebrew, variant of Akiva
    • Meaning:

      "protect"
    • Description:

      The spiritual sounding Kiva has a number of other-worldly associations. Kiva is a "Stargate" character who becomes a commander in the Lucian Alliance, as well as a planet in "Star Wars." Kiva is also the name of a room used by the Hopi for spiritual ceremonies.
  3. Arvel
    • Description:

      Arvel is a masculine name with varied origins. Some sources connect it to Old Norse elements, possibly derived from 'arr' meaning 'eagle' combined with 'valdr' meaning 'ruler.' Others suggest it may be a variant of Arvid, meaning 'eagle tree' or 'eagle wood.' In some regions, Arvel is considered a diminutive form of Arvell or a variant of Orville. The name has remained relatively uncommon throughout history, experiencing brief periods of minor usage in the United States during the early 20th century. Arvel carries a rustic, somewhat old-fashioned charm while maintaining distinctive character. Its rarity makes it an uncommon choice for modern parents, though it appeals to those seeking a name with historical depth and unique quality.

  4. Arvid
    • Origin:

      Swedish, Norwegian, Danish
    • Meaning:

      "eagle-tree"
    • Description:

      Arvid, a Scandinavian name that's virtually unknown in the US, is one of the top baby names in Sweden. It might make a handsome, unusual choice for a parent in search of an original yet traditional A name.
  5. Arnav
    • Origin:

      Hindi
    • Meaning:

      "ocean"
    • Description:

      This popular Indian name is heard in the US. Bollywood actor Akshay Khanna has a son named Arnav.
  6. Arvin
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "friend of the people"
    • Description:

      This name's popularity peaked in the 1930s in the mid 600s - but we think it is time for a reconsideration. Arvin feels more modern than similar names like Marvin and Alvin. It also boasts a beautiful meaning and defies easy shortening (which is an asset to many parents who choose a name because they want it to be used!).
  7. Reva
    • Origin:

      Hindi river name; Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "rain"
    • Description:

      Refers to one of the seven sacred rivers of India.
  8. Iva
    • Origin:

      Bulgarian, Croatian, Serbian, Slovene, Slovak, Czech, English
    • Meaning:

      "willow tree; God is gracious; yew tree; bow warrior"
    • Description:

      Short, sweet, and sharp, this multicultural choice is currently popular in Croatia, Czechia, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. While not in the charts elsewhere, it is familiar in English speaking countries, and in the Netherlands.
  9. Svend
    • Description:

      Svend is a masculine Scandinavian name, particularly common in Denmark and Norway. It derives from the Old Norse name Sveinn, meaning "young man" or "boy." Historically, it was borne by several Danish kings, including Svend Forkbeard who ruled Denmark in the late 10th century. The name carries strong Nordic heritage and projects qualities of strength and leadership due to its royal associations. While remaining consistently popular in Scandinavia, Svend is relatively uncommon outside those regions, giving it a distinctive character for international use. Its short, strong sound with the distinctive Scandinavian 'v' makes it both distinctive and accessible, appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth and cultural significance.
  10. Sylvania
    • Description:

      Sylvania is a feminine name derived from Latin elements 'silva' or 'sylva' meaning 'forest' or 'woods', combined with the suffix '-ia' denoting 'land of'. The name literally translates to 'woodland' or 'forest dweller'. With its classical roots, Sylvania evokes images of lush forests and natural beauty. Though uncommon as a first name, it has historical usage and shares roots with place names and the word 'sylvan' (relating to woods). The name carries an elegant, slightly vintage quality with its flowing four-syllable structure. Sylvania appeals particularly to nature-loving parents seeking a name with classical origins but distinctive usage. The name suggests qualities of natural grace, tranquility, and connection to the earth, while its relative rarity makes it a standout choice.

  11. Alvino
    • Description:

      Alvino is a masculine name with Italian and Spanish roots, derived from the Latin 'albus' meaning 'white' or 'bright.' It's a variation of Alvin, with the Italian/Spanish suffix giving it a more melodic quality. Alvino carries connotations of clarity, purity, and brightness. While relatively uncommon in the United States, the name has maintained steady usage in Hispanic and Italian communities. Historically, the name gained some recognition through Alvino Rey, a pioneer of electric guitar and big band music in the 20th century. Alvino offers parents a distinctive yet accessible option with a pleasant sound and positive meaning, blending classic origins with a slightly exotic feel for English speakers.
  12. Everard
    • Origin:

      English spelling variation of Eberhard
    • Meaning:

      "hardy"
    • Description:

      An older form of Everett that stays closer to its Germanic roots. Distinguished Everard is the name of several historical figures and literary characters, including a minor hobbit in The Lord of the Rings. Yet, even now that Ever- names are the height of style, Everard hasn't been seen on the charts for decades.
  13. Torvald
    • Origin:

      Norse
    • Meaning:

      "Thor's ruler"
    • Description:

      Torvald, not to be confused with Torvill of skating fame, is a Norse name which might be of interest to parents looking for Thor-related options. Torvald is most familiar in the English-speaking world as the infuriatingly sexist husband of Nora in Ibsen's play A Doll's House, which may account for its low usage. However, Linus Torvalds, inventor of Linux , might put the name into a more positive light, especially in Silicon Valley.
  14. Avis
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "bird"
    • Description:

      Avis is a bird name that's been in hibernation for awhile, possibly due to the car rental association, but it could make a return on the wings of Ava. Baldwin brother Daniel chose it for his daughter.
  15. Everlee
    • Origin:

      Variation of Everly, English
    • Meaning:

      "wild boar in woodland clearing"
    • Description:

      Like Ashley before it, Everly has been followed into the US charts by a number of spelling variations, one of which is Everlee. More distinctly feminine perhaps or a little sweeter in style, Everlee ranks in the US Top 500.
  16. Ivanka
    • Origin:

      Variation of Ivana
    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"
    • Description:

      High-profile First Daughter Trump bears a nickname for her mother's name, Ivana. But though quite common in Slavic countries, and despite its international appeal, Ivanka is likely to remain a Singe-Celebrity name in the US — the Oprah of the political world — for the foreseeable future. Ivanka's larger impact on names may be inspiring parents to name their daughters after their moms.
  17. Ovidia
    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of Ovidius, Roman family name
    • Meaning:

      "shepherd or sheep"
    • Description:

      Ovidia is the unusual feminine form of the ancient Roman Ovidius, most famous as the name of the exiled 1st century Roman poet Ovid. Modern male form Ovidio is known in Spain and Portugal. Ovida is another variation.
  18. Siv
    • Origin:

      Norse
    • Meaning:

      "bride"
    • Description:

      Siv, or sometimes Sif, was the name of Thor's wife and is popular in modern Scandinavia. In Norse mythology, Siv was the goddess of fertility and agriculture.
  19. Grove
    • Origin:

      Nature name
    • Meaning:

      "grove of trees"
    • Description:

      If you find Grover too fusty and furry, this is a much cooler-sounding alternative.
  20. Pavel
    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Paul
    • Meaning:

      "small"
    • Description:

      Pavel may be widespread in the former Soviet Union, but it has a somewhat impoverished image here.