Avril

female

Origin

French origin, derived from the Latin 'Aprilis', related to the month April. The name became popular in English-speaking countries during the 20th century, influenced by the French word 'avril' meaning 'April'. It is not traditionally associated with Aboriginal Australian or Māori languages but has gained recognition in broader multicultural Australia.

Meaning

Literally translates to 'April' in French, symbolising spring, renewal, and new beginnings in broader European cultural contexts. In Australia, it is often linked with themes of renewal and freshness, especially associated with the month of April.

Pronunciation

/ˈævrɪl/ (Australian English pronunciation, emphasis on first syllable, 'AV-ril') - 'AV' as in 'average', 'ril' as in 'rill'.  It rhymes with 'civil' in UK and Australian accents.

Variants & Nicknames

Variants

  • Avril (original French spelling)
  • April (English equivalent)
  • Avrale (rare variant)

Nicknames

  • Avi
  • Ava

Name Days

  • 20 April (International Day of Happiness, globally observed)
  • April (month celebration)
  • No specific Australian Indigenous or Christian saints' days associated)

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with avril:

  • Olivia and Ava','Charlotte and Avril','Lila and Avril'],'fun_facts':['The name Avril gained popularity in Australia during the 1960s and 1970s, partly influenced by the French singer Avril Lavigne.
  • Avril is sometimes used as a double-barrel name with other floral or seasonal names, such as Avril-Rose.
  • In Australian pop culture, Avril Lavigne is a well-known Canadian singer often admired by Australian teenagers.

Fun Facts

  • The name is less common today, but still maintains a charming vintage appeal in Australia.
  • Australian parents may choose Avril for its melodic sound and springtime connotations.
  • In Australian literature, the name has occasionally appeared in poetry and children's stories celebrating nature and renewal.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name avril:

  • Melodic and gentle.
  • Associated with freshness, renewal, and optimism.
  • Often perceived as a vintage, elegant, and slightly whimsical name.

Aesthetic Qualities

The name has a delicate, floral visual appeal, with a simplicity that lends itself to artistic and decorative typography. It looks elegant and timeless when written.

Geographical Distribution

More common in the southern states such as Victoria and Tasmania, where floral and seasonal names are more popular. Slightly less common in Queensland and Western Australia.

Numerological Significance

Calculates as 7 (A=1, V=22, R=18, I=9, L=12), which is associated with introspection, spirituality, and wisdom in numerology. The name encourages contemplation and personal growth.

Astrological Connections

Linked to the zodiac sign Taurus or Aries, aligning with springtime themes, renewal, and vitality — fitting given its association with April and renewal.

Historical Context

The name Avril became popular as a given name in Australia during the mid-20th century, partly inspired by literary and cultural influences. It has been used in Australian poetry and literature as a symbol of renewal and springtime.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name adapts easily across languages, with spelling variants like Avril (French), Avrilie (French diminutive), and April (English). It retains phonetic clarity in most Roman alphabet-based languages.

Famous People Named avril

  • Avril Lavigne (Australian-born singer-songwriter, although Canadian by birth)
  • Avril Beresse (Australian artist)
  • Fictionally, used in Australian children's books to depict characters linked with nature.

Popularity in Australia

Year Count
2016 1
2015 1