Avril: a female name of Latin origin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis,” meaning “April, to open, figuratively “youthful,” which in turn derives from Etruscan “apru".It derives from the Latin word "Apru > ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis".
Avril has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Latin roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Latin “ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis,” meaning “April, to open, figuratively “youthful,” which in turn derives from Etruscan “apru" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Avril
Quick facts about Avril
Origin
Latin, Etruscan
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately 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 “ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis,” meaning “April, to open, figuratively “youthful,” which in turn derives from Etruscan “apru.” The traditional etymology is from the verb ăpĕrĭo, “to open, inaugurate, initiate,” in allusion to its being the season when trees and flowers begin to “open,” which is supported by comparison with the modern Greek use of anoixis (ἁνοιξις), meaning “opening” about the opening of the spring season. Since some of the Roman months were named in honor of divinities, and as April was sacred to the goddess Venus, her Veneralia being held on the first day, it has been suggested that Aprilis was originally her month Aphrilis, from her equivalent Greek goddess name Aphrodite (Aphros). April is the fourth month of the year according to the Gregorian calendar.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Apru > ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis
How to Pronounce Avril
Avril is pronounced /ˈævrɪl/(Latin)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Avr-il
Say it like: "AVREEHL"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across english, french, and german speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
englishfrenchgerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Avril
What does the name Avril mean?
Avril means "This name derives from the Latin “ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis,” meaning “April, to open, figuratively “youthful,” which in turn derives from Etruscan “apru.” The traditional etymology is from the verb ăpĕrĭo, “to open, inaugurate, initiate,” in allusion to its being the season when trees and flowers begin to “open,” which is supported by comparison with the modern Greek use of anoixis (ἁνοιξις), meaning “opening” about the opening of the spring season. Since some of the Roman months were named in honor of divinities, and as April was sacred to the goddess Venus, her Veneralia being held on the first day, it has been suggested that Aprilis was originally her month Aphrilis, from her equivalent Greek goddess name Aphrodite (Aphros). April is the fourth month of the year according to the Gregorian calendar.". The name comes from Apru > ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Avril for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis,” meaning “April, to open, figuratively “youthful,” which in turn derives from Etruscan “apru.” The traditional etymology is from the verb ăpĕrĭo, “to open, inaugurate, initiate,” in allusion to its being the season when trees and flowers begin to “open,” which is supported by comparison with the modern Greek use of anoixis (ἁνοιξις), meaning “opening” about the opening of the spring season. Since some of the Roman months were named in honor of divinities, and as April was sacred to the goddess Venus, her Veneralia being held on the first day, it has been suggested that Aprilis was originally her month Aphrilis, from her equivalent Greek goddess name Aphrodite (Aphros). April is the fourth month of the year according to the Gregorian calendar." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Avril's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like JULIAN CALENDAR MONTHS (APRILIS / APRIL), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Avril?
Avril has latin and etruscan origins. The name traces back to Apru > ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis. From its latin roots, Avril spread to become common in english, french, german. The latin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis,” meaning “April, to open, figuratively “youthful,” which in turn derives from Etruscan “apru.” The traditional etymology is from the verb ăpĕrĭo, “to open, inaugurate, initiate,” in allusion to its being the season when trees and flowers begin to “open,” which is supported by comparison with the modern Greek use of anoixis (ἁνοιξις), meaning “opening” about the opening of the spring season. Since some of the Roman months were named in honor of divinities, and as April was sacred to the goddess Venus, her Veneralia being held on the first day, it has been suggested that Aprilis was originally her month Aphrilis, from her equivalent Greek goddess name Aphrodite (Aphros). April is the fourth month of the year according to the Gregorian calendar." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Avril a boy or girl name?
Avril is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In latin tradition, Avril has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis,” meaning “April, to open, figuratively “youthful,” which in turn derives from Etruscan “apru.” The traditional etymology is from the verb ăpĕrĭo, “to open, inaugurate, initiate,” in allusion to its being the season when trees and flowers begin to “open,” which is supported by comparison with the modern Greek use of anoixis (ἁνοιξις), meaning “opening” about the opening of the spring season. Since some of the Roman months were named in honor of divinities, and as April was sacred to the goddess Venus, her Veneralia being held on the first day, it has been suggested that Aprilis was originally her month Aphrilis, from her equivalent Greek goddess name Aphrodite (Aphros). April is the fourth month of the year according to the Gregorian calendar." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Avril?
Avril is pronounced "/ˈævrɪl/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Avril is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, french, german, 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 Avril can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Avril?
Avril is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Avril offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Avril'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 “ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis,” meaning “April, to open, figuratively “youthful,” which in turn derives from Etruscan “apru.” The traditional etymology is from the verb ăpĕrĭo, “to open, inaugurate, initiate,” in allusion to its being the season when trees and flowers begin to “open,” which is supported by comparison with the modern Greek use of anoixis (ἁνοιξις), meaning “opening” about the opening of the spring season. Since some of the Roman months were named in honor of divinities, and as April was sacred to the goddess Venus, her Veneralia being held on the first day, it has been suggested that Aprilis was originally her month Aphrilis, from her equivalent Greek goddess name Aphrodite (Aphros). April is the fourth month of the year according to the Gregorian calendar." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Avril holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Avril commonly used?
Avril is common in english and french and german naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Avril found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Avril, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis,” meaning “April, to open, figuratively “youthful,” which in turn derives from Etruscan “apru.” The traditional etymology is from the verb ăpĕrĭo, “to open, inaugurate, initiate,” in allusion to its being the season when trees and flowers begin to “open,” which is supported by comparison with the modern Greek use of anoixis (ἁνοιξις), meaning “opening” about the opening of the spring season. Since some of the Roman months were named in honor of divinities, and as April was sacred to the goddess Venus, her Veneralia being held on the first day, it has been suggested that Aprilis was originally her month Aphrilis, from her equivalent Greek goddess name Aphrodite (Aphros). April is the fourth month of the year according to the Gregorian calendar." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Avril into their naming traditions. A child named Avril 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, Avril is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Avril?
Avril carries associations with JULIAN CALENDAR MONTHS (APRILIS / APRIL). 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 “ăpĕrĭo > Ăprīlis,” meaning “April, to open, figuratively “youthful,” which in turn derives from Etruscan “apru.” The traditional etymology is from the verb ăpĕrĭo, “to open, inaugurate, initiate,” in allusion to its being the season when trees and flowers begin to “open,” which is supported by comparison with the modern Greek use of anoixis (ἁνοιξις), meaning “opening” about the opening of the spring season. Since some of the Roman months were named in honor of divinities, and as April was sacred to the goddess Venus, her Veneralia being held on the first day, it has been suggested that Aprilis was originally her month Aphrilis, from her equivalent Greek goddess name Aphrodite (Aphros). April is the fourth month of the year according to the Gregorian calendar." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In latin culture, where Avril 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 Avril sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Avril often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english 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.