Origin
The name Reva has multiple origins. In Hebrew, it is derived from a biblical context meaning 'to gaze' or 'to look'. It also has roots in Sanskrit, where it means 'rain' or 'teardrop'. The name has gained popularity in Western countries, including Australia, largely through its simple, melodic sound. It is not specifically associated with Aboriginal Australian or M01ori languages, and is considered a modern, cross-cultural name.
Meaning
Literal translation includes 'to gaze' or 'to look' in Hebrew, symbolising perception or vision. In Sanskrit, it refers to rain, evoking nature and renewal. In Australian English, it carries connotations of clarity, freshness, and natural beauty.
Pronunciation
/ˈriː.və/ (Ree-vuh; emphasis on first syllable, Australian pronunciation is similar to standard British English) G:\AU\Names\Reva.mp3 (Audio pronunciation)
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Reeva (variant spelling, less common)
- Rheva (less common variant)
- Revah (less common, alternative spelling)
Nicknames
- Revi
- Revs
- Vee
Name Days
- 29 August (Feast of Saint John Vianney, celebrated by some Catholic communities in Australia)
- 15 September (Maria Reva Day, honouring local community figures, unofficial)
- R01 Wh01nau (M01ori cultural celebration, varies annually)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with reva:
- Reva and Lily (flower themes)
- Reva and Mia (short, harmonious)
- Reva and Charlotte (classic pairing)
Fun Facts
- Reva is a popular name for boutique hotels and small businesses in Australia, evoking a sense of elegance and freshness.
- The name Reva was used for a notable racing greyhound in the 1980s in Australia.
- Reva is a name included in the top 500 most used female names in Australia since the early 2000s.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name reva:
- Elegant
- Perceptive
- Gentle
- Sensuous
- Nature-loving
Aesthetic Qualities
Reva has a simple, graceful aesthetic with rounded letters and soft phonetic flow, fitting well in modern Australian design and naming tastes. It looks appealing in both casual and formal contexts.
Geographical Distribution
Reva is more common in urban and coastal areas of Australia, notably in states like Victoria and New South Wales, where diverse international influences are strongest.
Numerological Significance
Name number 7, associated with introspection, spirituality, and analytical thinking, aligning with qualities of perception and clarity associated with the name.
Astrological Connections
Linked to the zodiac sign Virgo, symbolising purity and perceptiveness, which complement the name's meanings of sight and insight. Suitable for individuals born under this sign or those seeking attributes of clarity and analysis.
Historical Context
While Reva does not have a significant historical or cultural figure in Australia, it has appeared in literature and media as a symbol of elegance and clarity. It is sometimes associated with poetic characters or literary heroines.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts well across languages, maintaining its phonetic integrity in English, Hebrew, and Sanskrit, with minor spelling variations in other scripts.
Famous People Named reva
- Reva Seddon (Australian actress)
- Reva Rose (fictitious character from Australian literature)
- Reva Lee (contemporary Australian artist)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 1 |
2017 | 1 |
2014 | 2 |