Best names WITH a V -
- Ivanna
Origin:
Feminine of Ivan, which is itself a variation of JohnDescription:
Ivanna / Ivana both come out of the name "John" by way of the Russian variant Ivan. Whereas Joanna feels dated, Ivanna feels cosmopolitan and fresh. Ivanka (of Trump fame) is a diminutive version of Ivanna.
- Havana
Origin:
Taíno place-nameDescription:
Politics aside, the Cuban capital is one of the most rhythmic of place-names. The question is: can politics be put aside?
- Everlee
Origin:
Variation of Everly, EnglishMeaning:
"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.
- 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.
- Arvid
Origin:
Swedish, Norwegian, DanishMeaning:
"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.
- Nevis
Origin:
Place-nameDescription:
Highly unusual name of a small, tranquil island in the Caribbean; chosen for her daughter by singer Nelly Furtado.
- Avis
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"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.
- Ollivander
Origin:
Literary name, compound of Oliver and Alexander, Latin and GreekMeaning:
"olive tree and defending men"Description:
A rare twist on modern favorites like Oliver and Alexander, this elaborate option is nevertheless familiar to most people as the surname of the eminent wandmaker Garrick Ollivander, from the Harry Potter books.
- Arvo
Origin:
FinnishMeaning:
"value, worth"Description:
Arvo is a simple name virtually unknown in the US and UK that might get discovered thanks to the surprise popularity of Arlo.
- Kiva
Origin:
Hebrew, variant of AkivaMeaning:
"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.
- Avril
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"April"Description:
The French Canadian pop star Avril Lavigne put the spotlight on this name when she made the charts with "Sk8er Boi". It is simply the French form of April, the fourth month of the year, whose name might derive from the Latin aperire meaning "to open" in reference to the start of spring in the Northern hemisphere. Other sources suggest it comes from the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite.
- Ivalo
Origin:
GreenlandicMeaning:
"thread, sinew"Description:
This is a Greenlandic girls' name made royal when Prince Frederik and Princess Mary - now King and Queen - named their twin daughter Josephine Sophia Ivalo Mathilda.
- Gustav
Origin:
TeutonicMeaning:
"staff of the Goths"Description:
Gray-bearded name heard primarily in Sweden and Germany.
- Dave
Origin:
Short form of David, HebrewMeaning:
"beloved"Description:
Dave is the ultimate good guy name, but where father name David is still holding onto a spot in the Top 20, Dave -- widely used as an independent name in the middle of the last century -- dropped off the Top 1000 a few decades ago and shows no signs of a comeback. Baby Davids today, often named for dad or grandpa, are more likely to be called David than Dave.
- Avron
Description:
Avron is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, functioning as a variant of Aaron or Aron. The name carries the rich historical significance of its root name, connected to Moses's brother in biblical tradition. Linguistically, scholars have suggested meanings including "mountain of strength," "exalted teacher," or "bearer of martyrs." The spelling variation with the 'v' gives the name a slightly different phonetic quality (AV-ron rather than AIR-on) while maintaining its cultural heritage. Avron has remained relatively uncommon in mainstream usage, making it an option for parents who appreciate the historical grounding of biblical names but desire something less frequently encountered. The name carries a strong, distinctive sound with its crisp consonants, conveying a sense of strength and dignity.
- Genevra
Description:
Genevra is a feminine name with roots in the Latin name Juniperus, meaning "juniper tree." It's a variation of Geneva and Ginevra, sharing etymology with the name Jennifer. This elegant name combines classic heritage with a distinctive flair. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Genevra maintains an air of sophistication and timeless appeal. The name carries connections to Lake Geneva in Switzerland and has literary associations through various historical texts. Its rarity makes it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with traditional roots but without being overly popular. Genevra offers the friendly nickname options of Gen, Nevra, or Evie.
- Ovidia
Origin:
Feminine variation of Ovidius, Roman family nameMeaning:
"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.
- Arvin
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"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!).
- Grove
Origin:
Nature nameMeaning:
"grove of trees"Description:
If you find Grover too fusty and furry, this is a much cooler-sounding alternative.
- Livana
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"the moon, white"Description:
Pretty and unusual, Livana may find a lot more fans as parents look for alternatives to Number 1 Olivia. Livana was used for only seven baby girls in the US last year.
