Cora, a name with vintage charm and a steadily rising popularity, offers a sweet and sophisticated option for parents. While its sound is reminiscent of Clara and Cara, Cora possesses a unique identity, steeped in history and literary significance. This article explores the meaning, popularity, and associated names to help you determine if Cora is the perfect fit for your little one.
Cora Name Meaning
The name Cora is often associated with the Greek word "kore," meaning "maiden." In Greek mythology, Kore was another name for Persephone, the goddess of spring. This association lends the name a vibrant and youthful energy. Cora embodies a sense of innocence and potential, making it a meaningful choice. It is also sometimes linked to the Latin word "cor," meaning "heart," suggesting a warm and loving nature.
Cora is soft and sweet, a moniker with endless appeal. Style and Cora go hand in hand, and she’s never one to shy away from glitz and glamour. While she has a slight size and delicate demeanor, Cora is filled with wonder and potential, a great name for a leader. The name is versatile, aging gracefully while maintaining a youthful charm through nicknames like Cori. It strikes a balance between maturity and playfulness, suitable for both childhood adventures and professional settings. Longer forms like Coralie and Coraline provide additional options if a longer name is desired.
Cora’s literary connections add to its allure. She appears in James Fenimore Cooper’s 19th-century classic, The Last of the Mohicans, adding a touch of historical romance to the name. Modern audiences might recognize the name from Titanic, where a young girl named Cora shares a memorable dance with Jack Dawson.
Cora Name Popularity
How popular is the name Cora? The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides valuable insights into the name’s historical and current usage.
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 85 | 1,050 | 0.2982% |
| 1950 | 288 | 704 | 0.0437% |
| 1970 | 704 | 167 | 0.0105% |
| 2000 | 481 | 528 | 0.0346% |
| 2010 | 274 | 1,180 | 0.0819% |
| 2020 | 88 | 2,915 | 0.229% |
| 2023 | 93 | 2,740 | 0.2117% |
As the data shows, Cora experienced a period of popularity in the early 20th century, gradually declining before a resurgence in recent decades. It is currently enjoying a significant rise in popularity, ranking among the top 100 names for girls in the United States. This resurgence suggests that Cora is a timeless name that appeals to modern parents seeking a blend of vintage charm and contemporary appeal. While there are many baby names, the name Cora is the choice of many.
Names Like Cora
If Cora appeals to you, you might also consider these similar names:
Diminutives: Cori, Corie, Cory
Variants: Coralie, Coraline, Coretta, Kora, Korina
Sound-Alikes: Cara, Kara, Kira, Kyra
Similar Names: Clara, Bella, Grace, Lily, Rose
These alternatives share Cora’s elegant simplicity or connect with a similar sound or style.
Siblings of Cora
Parents who choose the name Cora often select these names for their other children:
- Silas
- Seneca
- Terryn
This glimpse into sibling names provides additional insight into the aesthetic preferences of parents who favor the name Cora.
Conclusion
Cora is a charming and meaningful name with a rich history and a bright future. Its versatility, literary connections, and rising popularity make it a compelling choice for parents seeking a classic yet contemporary name for their daughter.