Origin
Latin origin, from 'Aquila' meaning 'eagle'. Historically, the name is associated with the Latin word for 'eagle', symbolising strength and nobility. It has been used in various Christian contexts, notably as a biblical symbol of divine protection and authority. In Aboriginal Australian cultures, there are no direct traditional equivalents, but the eagle as a soaring bird features prominently in many Indigenous stories symbolising vision and spiritual insight.
Meaning
Literal translation is 'eagle' in Latin. In Australian English contexts, 'Aquila' evokes themes of freedom, strength, and keen sight, often admired in poetic references and literary descriptions.
Pronunciation
/əˈkwɪl.ə/ (aw-kwil-uh) in Australian English, with emphasis on the second syllable, pronounced with a clear 'w' sound and 'l' in the final syllable, as per standard Australian accent.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Aquillus (less common), Latin variants, 'Aquila' used directly in most contexts.
- Noah (related semantically through biblical associations).
- Aquilino (masculine variant, rare).
Nicknames
- Aki
- Aqua
Name Days
- 12 July (Feast of Saint Aquila, early Christian figure)
- 17 September (European Saint's day, occasionally observed in some communities)
- Māori not specifically observing this name, but cultural appreciation of eagle symbolism exists.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with aquila:
- Isla and Aurora
- Elliot and Oliver
- Lila and Maya — for harmonious, nature-inspired names
Fun Facts
- The name Aquila is shared with a constellation in the southern sky visible from Australia.
- Aquila is also the name of a genus of birds that includes eagles, hawks, and kites, which are significant in Aboriginal Australian art and Dreaming stories.
- In Australian pop culture, 'Aquila' has been used in brand names and character names, often to evoke strength and nobility.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name aquila:
- Intelligent
- Noble
- Visionary
- Independent
- Creative
Aesthetic Qualities
Elegant and majestic visual impression; the name's symmetry and vowel harmony lend it an artful, timeless quality in written form in Australian English.
Geographical Distribution
More common in urban centres like Sydney and Melbourne, especially among parents inspired by history, mythology, or the arts, than in rural areas. No specific regional dominance.
Numerological Significance
Name number 9, associated with humanitarianism, idealism, and universal compassion, reflecting the eagle's symbolic traits in a broader spiritual context.
Astrological Connections
Aligned with the zodiac sign Sagittarius, which is ruled by Jupiter, symbolising expansion, vision, and high ideals — qualities associated with the eagle.
Historical Context
The name Aquila appears in early Christian texts, notably in the Bible as a Jewish-Christian named companion of Paul the Apostle. In Australia, the name gained mild popularity in the 20th century during the renaissance of classical and biblical names. Notable figures include Aquila Koreison, an Australian academic, and fictional characters in Australian literature and TV.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name readily adapts across languages; in Spanish and Italian, 'Aquila' retains its form, while in Asian languages, it is transliterated phonetically.
Famous People Named aquila
- Aquila Koreison (Academic)
- Fictional character in Australian literature.
- Notable uses in media and branding.
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
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2015 | 1 |