Averil

Meaning & origin

Averil first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1895, with its peak year coming just a year later in 1896, when it was given to a small number of girls. Despite this early 20th-century usage, Averil never entered widespread popularity and has remained a rare choice. Its trajectory has been remarkably stable at very low frequencies for over a century, never reaching a rank on the national charts. The name's etymology is debated: it may be an anglicized form of Avril, the French version of April, or a feminine form of a Germanic name meaning 'boar battle' (like Everild). However, many modern parents have likely adopted it for its sound and association with the spring month. Averil remains a distinctive vintage option.

Averil is a variant of Avril, which is the French and English form of Aprilis, the Latin name for the month of April. Alternatively, it may be a feminine form of the Germanic name Averil, derived from elements meaning 'boar' and 'battle'. The name saw modest use in the late 19th century, particularly in the 1890s, but has since become rare.