Meaning, origin, history
April is a given name of English origin and meaning. It comes from the Latin word "Aprilis," which means "to open." This name was used for the month of April in several Romance languages, including French ("avril"), Italian ("aprile"), and Spanish ("abril"). The name April also has historical significance as it was the name given to the first month of the year in the Roman calendar.
The name April has been popular throughout history, particularly during the Middle Ages. It is believed that the name gained popularity due to its association with springtime, which was considered a time of renewal and rebirth. In many cultures, April is seen as a time when nature comes back to life after the cold winter months, with flowers blooming and trees beginning to grow new leaves.
In literature, April has been used as a symbol of youthfulness and innocence. For example, in Shakespeare's "The Two Gentlemen of Verona," one of the main characters is named Proteus, who has an April-like quality: "Thou art like April, showering gentles rain." This reference highlights April's association with freshness and vitality.
Today, April remains a popular given name for girls. It is often chosen by parents who want to give their daughter a name that reflects the beauty of springtime or has historical significance. While it may not be as common as some other names, April continues to be recognized as a unique and meaningful choice.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Aprel since 1880
Total births
70
Total since 1880
Peak year
1974
11 births
in 1983
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years