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Myra Girl

Popularity: #533 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationMY-rah / /ˈmaɪ.rə/

Greek; Latin; Arabic

Meaning

Greek: 'myrtle'; Latin: 'beloved'; Arabic: 'princess'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Myra has its roots in ancient languages, primarily deriving from the Greek word "myron," which translates to "myrrh," a fragrant resin used in ancient times for perfumes and incense. The name was popularized in the early 20th century, but its linguistic journey can be traced back to its use in the Hellenistic period, where it was associated with the aromatic substance that held significant value in various cultures, including those of the Mediterranean and Near East. Myra entered the English language through Latin, where it was adopted from Greek, and subsequently made its way into vernacular use in the Middle Ages.

Historically, Myra is also linked to a city in Lycia, present-day Turkey, which was an important center during the Roman Empire. The city was the home of Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop whose legacy contributed to the cultural significance of the name. His feast day, celebrated on December 6, became associated with gift-giving and the figure of Santa Claus, further embedding the name within Christian tradition. The name Myra appears in various historical texts and translations, including the works of early Christian writers who sought to promote the virtues of saints.

Culturally, Myra has been associated with qualities of sweetness and beauty, reflecting the characteristics of myrrh itself. The name has been embraced in literature and art, often symbolizing grace and virtue. Its enduring appeal can be seen in various adaptations and diminutive forms, such as Mira, which have also emerged in different cultures. Overall, Myra encapsulates a rich tapestry of historical, linguistic, and cultural significance that has allowed it to persist through the ages.

Trend Summary

Myra has experienced fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a notable resurgence in recent years.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Mira
  • Myrra

International Variants

  • Mira (Spanish)
  • Mireille (French)
  • Mira (Slavic)

Famous people named Myra

Myra Hindley was a criminal best known for her involvement in the Moors murders in England.

Myra Kraft was a philanthropist best known for her contributions to various charitable organizations and the arts.

Myra Lewis was a notable figure in the civil rights movement, known for her activism and community organizing.

Fictional characters named Myra

Myra is a fictional character from the video game series Final Fantasy. She is a prominent character in the lore of the series, often associated with themes of magic and adventure.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Myra was first seen in the United States in 1880. Myra has ranked as high as #437 nationally, which occurred in 1958, and has been most popular in New York, California, North Carolina, Alabama, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Myra has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Myra (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 46
12%
CA 35
9%
NJ 27
7%
OH 21
5%
FL 19
5%
IL 19
5%
NY 18
5%
WA 17
4%
PA 17
4%
NC 16
4%
GA 15
4%
IN 15
4%
MN 14
4%
MO 14
4%
TN 12
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188083
188172
188289
188381
188498
188584
188696
188795
1888134
1889121
1890133
1891113
1892113
1893117
1894148
1895127
1896158
1897138
1898143
1899115
1900164
1901115
1902136
1903128
1904119
1905126
1906139
1907142
1908148
1909144
1910155
1911186
1912224
1913305
1914322
1915390
1916422
1917465
1918468
1919461
1920516
1921523
1922468
1923473
1924492
1925502
1926466
1927535
1928521
1929490
1930489
1931511
1932560
1933512
1934593
1935595
1936574
1937642
1938724
1939658
1940749
1941788
1942929
1943886
1944719
1945737
1946818
19471,141
19481,088
19491,013
19501,032
19511,028
1952941
1953966
1954960
1955916
1956896
19571,106
19581,287
19591,246
19601,175
19611,036
1962900
1963863
1964749
1965638
1966528
1967508
1968510
1969452
1970454
1971451
1972362
1973404
1974384
1975367
1976341
1977345
1978355
1979318
1980367
1981350
1982332
1983323
1984311
1985308
1986321
1987293
1988302
1989270
1990300
1991287
1992274
1993245
1994242
1995226
1996236
1997201
1998228
1999234
2000230
2001233
2002245
2003249
2004226
2005240
2006255
2007231
2008242
2009303
2010265
2011342
2012307
2013353
2014448
2015493
2016564
2017616
2018634
2019572
2020533
2021507
2022540
2023505
2024453