Ilva

“defender”

Sweden origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#529US 2023

1.7kBirths / yr

→Stable

57All-time births

📅 Since 191500

How to pronounce Ilva

ILV·uh

/ˈɪlv.ə/ · stress on ILV · 2 syllables

“defender”

Sweden origin · Girl name

What does Ilva mean and where does it come from?

Ilva is a name of Scandinavian origin, particularly derived from Old Norse 'ilfr', meaning 'she-wolf'. The name is quite uncommon but has been gaining popularity in Sweden and Norway in recent years. Ilva has mythological connections with nature, embodying strength and resilience. It’s important to

Cultural significance

Ilva has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Sweden-speaking communities, where it reflects values of defender.

Peak popularity

Reached #2927 in 1921 — currently #529 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Ilva?

Ilva works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Ilva Grace

How popular is Ilva right now?

Holding steady — currently #529 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1915–2023#529 · Top 0.39%

1915

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#529	1,671	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#534	1,651	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#539	1,621	▲ up 4253 · +32320% births
1915	#4792	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Ilva

Best Year2023Rank #529

Peak Count1,671

Average Rank#1599

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range1915 - 20234 years

The story of Ilva

Ilva entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. With 57 total births recorded, Ilva remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4792 in 1915 to #529 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Ilva in 1921:

Mary Dorothy Helen Margaret Ruth

Ilva by decade

Ilva peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →

Decade	Births
1910s ★	26
1920s	25
1940s	6

💎Ilva has only 57 total recorded births since 1915 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What names sound and feel like Ilva?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ilva also consider these

Ulva

Sweden · Wolf; She-wolf.

English · Old English

Common questions about the name Ilva

What does the name Ilva mean?

Ilva means "defender" — a name rooted in Sweden tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.

How popular is the name Ilva?

Ilva is currently ranked #529 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Ilva?

Ilva originates from Sweden tradition. Sweden names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How do you pronounce the name Ilva?

Ilva is a two-syllable name pronounced IH1 L V AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

What personality traits are associated with the name Ilva?

Studies on name perception suggest that Ilva is often associated with balance and approachability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.