The name Keira is a captivating choice for a baby girl, carrying with it a blend of Irish heritage and modern appeal. Its rise in popularity speaks to its timeless quality and the positive associations it evokes. Let’s delve into the meaning, history, and trends surrounding this lovely name.
Keira Name Meaning
The name Keira originates from the Emerald Isle, specifically from the Irish name Ciarán. Ciarán itself is derived from the Gaelic word "ciar," meaning "dark" or "black." Consequently, Keira is often interpreted to mean "dark-haired." This meaning is simple yet elegant, connecting the name to a sense of natural beauty.
Beyond its literal meaning, Keira also suggests qualities of mystery, depth, and strength. While the color black is sometimes associated with negativity, in many cultures it also symbolizes power, sophistication, and resilience. Therefore, a girl named Keira may be seen as possessing these admirable traits.
The Rise of Keira: Popularity Trends
While the name has ancient roots, Keira’s surge in popularity is a relatively recent phenomenon. The provided data shows a clear upward trend, particularly in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. While the name was virtually unheard of in the early 1900s in the United States, its use began to increase slowly in the 1970s and 1980s.
A significant catalyst for Keira’s widespread appeal was undoubtedly the success of English actress Keira Knightley. Her breakthrough roles in films like "Pirates of the Caribbean" brought the name into the global spotlight, making it a fashionable choice for new parents.
The name’s popularity peaked in 2006, reaching rank 108 in the United States with over 3,000 births. While it has since experienced a slight decline, remaining a well liked name. In 2023, the name still ranked 580th, with 475 births. This demonstrates its lasting appeal and continued presence in the naming landscape.
The name has also enjoyed considerable popularity in other English-speaking countries, frequently appearing in the top 100 lists in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. This international appeal further cements Keira as a name with broad cultural relevance.
Keira and its Variations
Several variations and similar-sounding names offer alternatives for parents who appreciate the sound and feel of Keira. These include:
- Kira: A closely related name with a similar sound and the same Irish origin and meaning.
- Keera: Another variation with a slight difference in spelling.
- Kaira: A name of Latin origin meaning "beloved" or "friend."
- Kera: Another Irish name connected to the meaning "black."
These options provide a range of choices for parents seeking a name with a similar essence to Keira, whether in sound, origin, or meaning.
Names Like Keira
The table below shows names that sound and have similar origins to Keira
| Name | Meaning | Origin | Popularity | Other Gender |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kaira | Beloved; friend; lord | Latin | ||
| Keera | Lord | Greek | ||
| Kera | Black | Irish | ||
| Kerra | Black | Irish | ||
| Kira | Black | Irish | ||
| Ceira | ||||
| Kefira | Hebrew | |||
| Keiba | Sunrise | Polynesian | ||
| Keila | Citadel | Hebrew | ||
| Meira | Light | Hebrew | ||
| Veira | Faith; truth; true image | Slavic | ||
| Yeira | To illuminate | Hebrew |
Sibling Names
The following table shows names that siblings of Keira often have.
| Name | Meaning | Origin | Popularity | Other Gender |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Britta | Exalted one; from Brittany or Great Britain | Scandinavian | ||
| Craig | Rock, rocky | Scottish | ||
| Piper | Pipe player | English | Yes |
Conclusion
Keira is a name that embodies both tradition and modernity. Its Irish roots, combined with its rise to fame through popular culture, have made it a beloved choice for parents around the world. With its elegant meaning, pleasing sound, and versatile nature, Keira is sure to remain a popular and cherished name for generations to come.