Aquila

Unisex
Origin:latin
Pronunciation:/ˈæ.kwɪ.lə/

Aquila: a unisex name of Latin origin meaning "This name derives from the Latin cognomen “Aquìlius,” from the Imperial Latin “aquìla,” meaning “brown, dark,” clearly refers to the name of the bird of prey “eagle” as a symbol of power and, in a Christian context, of immortality". It derives from the Latin word "AquìlA".

Aquila has maintained its appeal as a both name in modern times while preserving its Latin roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Latin cognomen “Aquìlius,” from the Imperial Latin “aquìla,” meaning “brown, dark,” clearly refers to the name of the bird of prey “eagle” as a symbol of power and, in a Christian context, of immortality" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Aquila

Quick facts about Aquila
OriginLatin
GenderUnisex
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Latin cognomen “Aquìlius,” from the Imperial Latin “aquìla,” meaning “brown, dark,” clearly refers to the name of the bird of prey “eagle” as a symbol of power and, in a Christian context, of immortality. 1) Saint Aquilina was a 3rd-century Christian child born in Byblos in 281. 2) Aquilino di Colonia was a canon and preacher, is venerated as a saint and martyr by the Catholic Church.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

AquìlA

How to Pronounce Aquila

Aquila is pronounced /ˈæ.kwɪ.lə/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Aq-uil-a
  2. Say it like: "AQ-UIL-A"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Aquila enjoys international appeal, used in 4 different linguistic and cultural contexts including spanish, swedish, finnish, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

spanishswedishfinnishlatin
Frequently Asked Questions About Aquila
What does the name Aquila mean?
Aquila means "This name derives from the Latin cognomen “Aquìlius,” from the Imperial Latin “aquìla,” meaning “brown, dark,” clearly refers to the name of the bird of prey “eagle” as a symbol of power and, in a Christian context, of immortality. 1) Saint Aquilina was a 3rd-century Christian child born in Byblos in 281. 2) Aquilino di Colonia was a canon and preacher, is venerated as a saint and martyr by the Catholic Church.". The name comes from AquìlA. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Aquila for children of any gender often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin cognomen “Aquìlius,” from the Imperial Latin “aquìla,” meaning “brown, dark,” clearly refers to the name of the bird of prey “eagle” as a symbol of power and, in a Christian context, of immortality. 1) Saint Aquilina was a 3rd-century Christian child born in Byblos in 281. 2) Aquilino di Colonia was a canon and preacher, is venerated as a saint and martyr by the Catholic Church." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Aquila's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Aquila?
Aquila is a latin name. The name traces back to AquìlA. From its latin roots, Aquila spread to become common in spanish, swedish, finnish, latin. The latin meaning "This name derives from the Latin cognomen “Aquìlius,” from the Imperial Latin “aquìla,” meaning “brown, dark,” clearly refers to the name of the bird of prey “eagle” as a symbol of power and, in a Christian context, of immortality. 1) Saint Aquilina was a 3rd-century Christian child born in Byblos in 281. 2) Aquilino di Colonia was a canon and preacher, is venerated as a saint and martyr by the Catholic Church." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Aquila a boy or girl name?
Aquila is a unisex name, given to both boys and girls. Unisex names have grown more popular since the 1990s, with parents choosing them for flexibility and modern appeal. Aquila works equally well for any child, letting the person's identity shape how the name feels rather than the other way around. In latin tradition, Aquila has historically been given to children of either gender. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin cognomen “Aquìlius,” from the Imperial Latin “aquìla,” meaning “brown, dark,” clearly refers to the name of the bird of prey “eagle” as a symbol of power and, in a Christian context, of immortality. 1) Saint Aquilina was a 3rd-century Christian child born in Byblos in 281. 2) Aquilino di Colonia was a canon and preacher, is venerated as a saint and martyr by the Catholic Church." carries well for any child, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Aquila?
Aquila is pronounced "/ˈæ.kwɪ.lə/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Aquila is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in spanish, swedish, finnish, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Aquila can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Aquila?
Aquila is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Aquila offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Aquila's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin cognomen “Aquìlius,” from the Imperial Latin “aquìla,” meaning “brown, dark,” clearly refers to the name of the bird of prey “eagle” as a symbol of power and, in a Christian context, of immortality. 1) Saint Aquilina was a 3rd-century Christian child born in Byblos in 281. 2) Aquilino di Colonia was a canon and preacher, is venerated as a saint and martyr by the Catholic Church." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among unisex names, Aquila holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Aquila commonly used?
Aquila spans multiple cultures, including spanish, swedish, finnish, and 1 other traditions. The name originated in latin culture and spread as people migrated and cultures exchanged ideas. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Aquila, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin cognomen “Aquìlius,” from the Imperial Latin “aquìla,” meaning “brown, dark,” clearly refers to the name of the bird of prey “eagle” as a symbol of power and, in a Christian context, of immortality. 1) Saint Aquilina was a 3rd-century Christian child born in Byblos in 281. 2) Aquilino di Colonia was a canon and preacher, is venerated as a saint and martyr by the Catholic Church." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Aquila into their naming traditions. A child named Aquila will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Aquila is given to children of any gender, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Aquila?
Aquila carries associations with BIBLICAL. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin cognomen “Aquìlius,” from the Imperial Latin “aquìla,” meaning “brown, dark,” clearly refers to the name of the bird of prey “eagle” as a symbol of power and, in a Christian context, of immortality. 1) Saint Aquilina was a 3rd-century Christian child born in Byblos in 281. 2) Aquilino di Colonia was a canon and preacher, is venerated as a saint and martyr by the Catholic Church." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In latin culture, where Aquila originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Aquila sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Aquila often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In spanish communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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