MallowbyNames

Avant

ah-VAHNT · Forward or before in French, often used as a surname or given name with connotations of advancement.

2025 rank (boys)
#12,008
Babies named in 2025
5
Peak popularity
2004
2025 frequency
1 in 341,615 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Declining since 2003

Declining since 2003, #12,008 for boys today.

Popularity of Avant since 1971

Babies named Avant per year in U.S. Social Security records.

193958198020002020Most births 2004Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1970s6
1980s0
1990s0
2000s366
2010s210
2020s60

Meaning & origin

Avant is a rare given name in the United States, first recorded in 1971. It saw modest use in the early 2000s, reaching its peak rank of 12,008 in 2005, but has since declined steadily since 2003. In 2025, it ranked 12,008th, with approximately 1 in every 341,615 boys receiving the name. The name is essentially absent from top state lists, reflecting its extremely low frequency. Avant is a French word name meaning 'before' or 'forward,' perhaps chosen by parents seeking a modern, directional name with a sophisticated European flair.

Avant is a French word meaning 'before' or 'forward,' derived from Latin 'ante.' It is rare as a given name in English-speaking countries, occasionally used as a surname or adopted for its modern, progressive sound. Its use as a first name likely emerged in the late 20th century, reflecting a trend toward word names and surnames as given names.

Sibling names for Avant

Names that share Avant's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Aria, Nova, Zara, Mira, Elara

Brothers: Axel, Cruz, Kai, Orion, Jax

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

A is for Avant, our favorite little boy.

A is for Avant…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Avant's letter becomes Avant's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Avant's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Avant mean?
Avant is a French word meaning 'before' or 'forward.' As a name, it suggests innovation or being ahead of one's time.
How popular is the name Avant?
Avant is quite rare. In 2025, it ranked 12,008th in the United States, with about 1 in 341,615 boys given the name that year.
Is Avant a boy's name or a girl's name?
Avant is primarily used for boys, though it is extremely uncommon overall.