Averil is a unique and distinctive female given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "Easter", which refers to the Christian festival celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The name Averil was traditionally used as an alternative spelling or variation of the name Easter, particularly in the Middle Ages.
The name Averil has a long history and has been used throughout different periods in England. It is believed that the name first became popular during the medieval period, when it was often used for girls who were born around Easter time. The name's association with this important Christian holiday may have contributed to its popularity among religious families.
Over time, the spelling of Averil has evolved and varied, with different versions such as Avril, Abril, and even April being used interchangeably. However, regardless of its spelling, the name retains its connection to Easter and its English origins.
Today, Averil remains a relatively rare name, but it is still occasionally encountered in English-speaking countries. Despite its rarity, the name continues to evoke images of springtime, new beginnings, and the joyful celebration of Easter. For those who bear this beautiful name, it serves as a reminder of their connection to the rich cultural heritage of England and the enduring significance of Easter.
The name Averil has been used consistently for newborns in the United States over the past century, with some fluctuations in popularity over time. Between 1895 and 2014, there were a total of 403 births registered with the name Averil.
During the early years recorded (1895-1929), the number of newborns named Averil varied between 5 and 20 each year, with peaks occurring in 1912, 1915, and 1924. This period saw a higher frequency of use for this name.
From the 1930s to the 1960s, the popularity of Averil as a baby name began to decline, with an average of fewer than 7 births per year during these decades. There was another brief spike in usage in 1963, with 16 births recorded that year.
Over the past few decades (1981-2014), Averil has remained relatively uncommon as a baby name in the United States, with annual birth counts ranging from 5 to 7. This steady low level of usage indicates that while it is not frequently chosen for newborns today, there continues to be some interest in this name.
In summary, while the name Averil experienced periods of higher popularity during certain decades, particularly between 1902 and 1932, its overall usage has generally been quite low throughout American history. Nevertheless, it remains a distinctive option for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.