Avon is an English given name for males and females alike, though it's more commonly used as a feminine name. The name originates from the ancient British kingdom of Avalonia, which was later known as the county of Avon in southwest England.
The meaning behind the name Avon is quite intriguing, as it doesn't have a direct translation like many names do. Instead, it carries historical significance tied to its place of origin. 'Avona' or 'Afon' means river in Welsh, which makes perfect sense considering the county of Avon is home to several notable rivers such as the Avon, Severn, and Frome.
The name Avon has a rich history dating back centuries. It was once popular among royalty with Queen Anne being born Ann Avona before becoming monarch. Additionally, the famous poet Alfred Lord Tennyson used 'Avon' in his works to represent the River Avon that flows through Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of William Shakespeare.
Today, the name Avon continues to carry a touch of elegance and historical charm. Whether it's being passed down through generations or chosen for its unique sound, this timeless moniker remains appealing to parents around the world looking for something distinctive yet familiar for their child.
The name Avon has seen fluctuations in popularity over time, with a total of 1605 babies named Avon between 1893 and 2023. The name experienced its peak during the early 20th century, particularly from 1914 to 1929, with years like 1919 (26 births), 1921 (32 births), and 1926 (30 births) showing significantly higher numbers. However, since the mid-20th century, its usage has generally decreased, with most recent years seeing fewer than 20 births each.