Ava

Ava has multiple proposed origins, including a Germanic root related to the element awi, of uncertain meaning, a Latin connection to avis meaning bird, and a Persian word meaning voice or sound. The Germanic origin is supported by the medieval German poet and religious writer Ava, who lived in the 11th and 12th centuries and is considered the earliest known female writer in the German language. The name largely fell out of use after the Middle Ages but was strongly revived in the 20th century, in part through the fame of American actress Ava Gardner. Related forms include Ave, and the name shares similarities with Eva and Aveline.