Alva: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days are a historical tradition, particularly strong in many European and Latin American countries, celebrating the saint or feast day associated with a given name. The name Alva is rich in historical usage and etymological variation, offering both ancient Nordic roots and later feminine associations worldwide. Its mood is one of elegant vintage simplicity, suggesting a gentle yet strong and refined personality. Alva’s name day is recognized on different dates across the world, celebrated on February 11th in the USA, February 21st in Finland, and September 3rd in Sweden.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Alva's name day is celebrated
on February 11 in the USA,
February 21 in Finland and
September 3 in Sweden.
The Story Behind This Name
Alva has had fluctuating but consistent usage in the United States over the last century and a half. Historically, it was more common for males in the 19th and early 20th centuries, though it has since seen a resurgence as a female name. Its peak popularity for boys occurred around the 1890s and 1900s, after which it steadily declined significantly. For girls, Alva has remained relatively rare but experienced minor peaks in the mid-20th century. Today, it maintains a low profile, often appealing to parents looking for a vintage, short, and slightly unconventional option in the US.
Name origin and meaning
Alva is a name with multiple distinct etymological roots depending on its linguistic context and regional adoption. As a Scandinavian name, particularly prevalent in Sweden, it is derived from the Old Norse word meaning "elf" or "elf warrior." However, Alva is also recognized in certain traditions as the feminine form of the Irish name Ailbhe, meaning "white" or "bright." Furthermore, the name can occasionally be encountered as a short form or variant of names like Alberta in other European language traditions. This cross-cultural presence contributes to its versatility and unique historical background.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
The classification of Alva varies significantly based on geographical region and historical period, rendering it a historically unisex name. In Scandinavian countries like Sweden, Alva is overwhelmingly recognized and used as a popular feminine name today. Conversely, in the historical usage of the United States and the United Kingdom during the late 19th century, Alva was more commonly registered for males. Due to these varying traditions, the name is best classified globally as one that has strongly transitioned toward female use in modern European contexts. Its short structure makes it easily adaptable across genders, even if usage leans feminine.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
The name Alva projects a concise and slightly spirited mood, blending classic simplicity with a touch of elegant reserve. It carries an understated strength due to its historical usage but feels delicate and light in its sound and phonetics. The vibe is decidedly vintage and sophisticated, suggesting someone who is thoughtful and perhaps a little mysterious. Alva evokes a kind of nature-like tranquility combined with a clean, modern aesthetic. Overall, the tone is gentle yet firm, suitable for a refined personality seeking a unique choice.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Alva
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 9 – The Humanitarian.
Keywords: Compassion, wisdom, completion, universal love, idealism.
Positive Traits: Generous, wise, tolerant, artistic, spiritual, philanthropic.
Challenges: Can be overly emotional, unrealistic, or struggle with letting go.
Life Path Meaning: A journey of serving others, global consciousness, and spiritual enlightenment.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 11 - The Visionary.
Highly spiritual, intuitive, inspiring, and a natural guide for others.
Can struggle with anxiety, sensitivity, or self-doubt.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Mars - Passion, Energy, Courage.
Mars represents action, drive, and ambition. Names under Mars' influence are often associated with bold, fearless, and highly determined individuals. These names carry an energetic and assertive quality, reflecting a person who is competitive, strong-willed, and unafraid to take risks. People with Mars-ruled names tend to have a pioneering spirit and a deep reservoir of inner strength.
Name days: Name Alva
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
Name days: Similar names (Alva)
Here you’ll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 Estonia | January | 10 | Talva, Talve, Talvi |
 Spain | February | 19 | Almudina, Conrado, Gabina, Gabino, Álvaro |
| Spain | March | 18 | Narciso, Salvador de la Horta |
 USA | March | 18 | Cyril, Cyrilla, Grover, Salvador, Salvatore, Sibyl, Sybil, Sybilla |
 Sweden | May | 14 | Halvar, Halvard |
 Latvia | June | 10 | Anatols, Bitite, Genoveva, Malva, Merida |
| Sweden | June | 21 | Alf, Alvar |
| Latvia | June | 27 | Malva, Malvine, Malvis |
| Spain | August | 6 | Salvador |
| Latvia | September | 6 | Balva, Magnuss, Maigonis |
| Estonia | September | 24 | Alvar, Alver, Alvo |
 Finland | September | 24 | Alvar, Auno |
 Austria | November | 22 | Cäcilia, Salvator |
| Latvia | December | 23 | Balva, Viktorija |
Alva A Name of Elegant History
Alva is a distinguished name characterized by its complex history and appealingly concise structure across different cultures. Originating from ancient roots meaning "elf" or connected to Irish traditions, it carries a versatile cross-cultural background of meaning. While historically functioning as a unisex name, Alva is predominantly utilized as a sophisticated feminine choice in contemporary contexts today. The name projects an elegant, vintage mood of gentle strength and refined simplicity, appealing to those who appreciate classic revival. Globally, the recognition of Alva's unique status is marked by specific name day celebrations, including dates in the USA, Finland, and Sweden.
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