Silva Name: Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
The name 'Silva' originates from Latin, meaning 'forest' or 'wood'. It has evolved through various historical forms, retaining its connection to nature. The name has no biblical relevance and gained popularity in medieval Europe as a surname. Variants include Silvano and Silvina, and it is currently perceived positively, often associated with the beauty of nature. Notable individuals with the name have contributed to various fields, including sports and politics.
Etymology & Cultural Background of "Silva"
Pronunciation
/ˈsɪlvə/
Origin
Latin
Etymology
The name 'Silva' derives from the Latin word 'silva', meaning 'forest' or 'wood'. It was often used as a surname in ancient Rome to denote someone who lived near a forest or wooded area.
Meaning
forest, wood
Language Evolution
Silva (Latin), Silvae (Latin, plural form), Silva (Old French), Silva (Modern English)
Historical Usage
The name Silva has been used since ancient times, gaining popularity as a surname in medieval Europe, particularly in regions influenced by Latin culture.
Variants & Derivatives
Silvano, Silvina, Silviana
Modern Popularity & Image
Silva is often associated with nature and the outdoors, reflecting its meaning related to forests. It is a popular surname in various cultures, particularly in Portuguese-speaking countries.
Famous People
Ronaldo Silva (Portuguese footballer), Jorge Silva (Portuguese politician), Silva (Brazilian musician)
📊 Silva Name Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Silva Name Visualizations
✨ Silva Name Meaning & Significance
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 19 peak births in 1969
Geographic Spread
Popular across 3 US states, with strongest presence in California
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 8 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Same Pronunciation Names for "Silva" - Complete Guide (1 Names)
Discover the ultimate list of homophone names and same pronunciation names that sound identical to "Silva". These names share the same pronunciation but may have different spellings, offering alternative options for parents seeking similar-sounding names. Whether you're looking for American or British pronunciation variations, this comprehensive guide includes 1 carefully curated names that maintain the same phonetic sound.
Why explore same pronunciation names? Many parents search for homophone names to find alternative spellings that might be more unique or culturally significant. This ultimate list covers both American and British pronunciation patterns, ensuring you find the perfect variation of "Silva" that fits your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics for the Name "Silva"
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History of "Silva"
"Silva" Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 20190th of 23106 | 10 |
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Girl | 2944th of 9107 | 169 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Girl | 3662nd of 9204 | 114 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 4506th of 12526 | 145 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 4426th of 19264 | 208 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 6648th of 27321 | 184 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 18926th of 35406 | 46 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 18924th of 30306 | 30 |
Regional Popularity of "Silva" by Generation for Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity of "Silva" by Generation for Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - |
100.00% 3518th/3518 |
67.01% 2710th/4044 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- |
100.00% 4475th/4475 |
- |
44.01% 2780th/6317 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
State-by-State Popularity of "Silva"
This map shows the relative popularity of "Silva" across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends of "Silva" in the United States
The name Silva is most popular in California, USA across all generations. It ranks highest as a Girl name among the Millennials (Gen Y) generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Boy name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, Silva has been stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. Across generations, 'Silva' has shown interesting popularity patterns: Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 20190th out of 23106 names. Among the G.I. Generation (1901-1927), it ranked 2944th out of 9107 names. Among the Silent Generation (1928-1945), it ranked 3662nd out of 9204 names. Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 4506th out of 12526 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 4426th out of 19264 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 6648th out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 18926th out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 18924th out of 30306 names. Discover how the name 'Silva' has evolved through American history with our comprehensive regional and generational analysis.