Meaning, origin, history
The name Iva is of Slavic origin and is derived from the old Slavic element "iv" which means "yew". It is also associated with the Old Slavonic word "iva" meaning "wild rose". The name has been traditionally used among the Czechs, Russians, Bulgarians, Serbians, and Slovaks.
Iva is a unisex name but it is more commonly used for females. In some cultures, it is considered to be a form of Eve or Eva, which means "life" in Hebrew. However, in Slavic cultures, Iva is a distinct name with its own unique meaning and history.
The name Iva has been used since the Middle Ages but it gained popularity during the 19th century among Slavic peoples. It was also popularized by several literary works such as "Ivana" by Czech writer Bozena Nemcova, which tells the story of a young woman named Ivana (also spelled Iva) who is betrayed by her lover.
Today, Iva continues to be used among Slavic communities and has gained some international recognition due to its unique sound and meaning. It is often associated with nature and wild beauty, thanks to its connection to the yew tree and wild rose. Overall, Iva is a charming and distinctive name with a rich history and cultural significance.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Iva since 1880
Total births
564
Total since 1880
Peak year
1929
18 births
in 1985
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years