Origin
Latin, from 'aquila' meaning 'eagle'. Used historically in Christian texts and heraldry across Europe, including colonial Australia, where it symbolises strength and nobility. Not inherently Aboriginal or Māori in origin, but occasionally adopted in multicultural contexts in Australia.
Meaning
Literal translation is 'eagle'. In Australian English contexts, connotes qualities such as freedom, vision, and prowess, paralleling the attributes of the bird.
Pronunciation
/əˈkwɪl.ə/ or /aˈkwɪl.ə/ with emphasis on the second syllable, following UK and Australian English pronunciation standards, stressing the 'wil' sound.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Aquillus (Latin variant)
- Aquila (original Latin form)
- Eagle (English translation, rarely used as a given name)
Nicknames
- Aq
- Aqui
Name Days
- 24 November (Feast of Saint Andrew the Apostle, with eagle symbolism)
- 21 November (Kingfisher and eagle symbolism in Australian Indigenous culture)
- Rangitūāhu (Māori, meaning 'The Kingfisher' or 'Eagle')
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with aquilla:
- James and Alexander
- William and Oliver
- Henry and Charles
Fun Facts
- The name Aquilla has been used historically in Australia for ships and military units, symbolising strength and agility.
- Though rare, the name has seen a slight resurgence among Australian parents seeking distinctive biblical or nature-inspired names.
- Aquilla is also associated with the Australian eucalypt species 'Eucalyptus aquatica', linking it subtly to Australian flora.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name aquilla:
- Adventurous
- Ambitious
- Visionary
Aesthetic Qualities
Classical and majestic, with symmetrical spelling; visually appealing when stylised in traditional or modern fonts, often used in heraldic or emblematic contexts.
Geographical Distribution
Very rare, with no significant regional concentration; occasionally found in New South Wales and Victoria among families with historical or biblical naming traditions.
Numerological Significance
Name number 7 — associated with introspection, spiritual awareness, and analytical thinking, fitting for the eagle’s symbolism of keen vision and insight.
Astrological Connections
Linked to the zodiac sign Scorpio, which shares themes of intensity and vigilance, reflecting the eagle’s attributes; does not have formal astrological associations but can be linked through symbolic parallels.
Historical Context
Historically, the name Aquilla appears in ancient Roman records and was adopted in Christian communities for its biblical connotations. In Australia, it has appeared in colonial records and church registries, often among families with religious or classical interests.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name maintains its form across languages, with minor pronunciation adjustments in non-English speaking contexts; in Greek and Latin, remains 'Aquila' or variations thereof.
Famous People Named aquilla
- Aquilla Smith (19th-century Australian artist), known for his portraits and historical scenes.
- Aquilla Craig (Australian soldier and war hero)
- Aquilla (fictional character in Australian literature representing strength and resilience in children’s stories)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
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2017 | 1 |