Declining since 2003, #12,008 for boys today.
Popularity of Avant since 1971
Babies named Avant per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 6 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 366 |
| 2010s | 210 |
| 2020s | 60 |
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.

