Eva

Origin and meaning of Eva

Eva derives from the Hebrew Chavvah, 'life, she who gives life', from the root for breath and existence. In the biblical tradition she is the first woman, mother of humankind — a name of powerful primal and symbolic weight. Short, crisp and universal, it is found across Europe — Italy, Spain, Germany, Scandinavia and the Slavic world — with minimal variation. Beloved for its essentiality and depth of meaning, it unites sonic simplicity with evocative richness.

Variants around the world

How Eva is said in other languages.

Famous people

• Eva Marie Saint— actress