Sora Unisex
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: SOH-rah /ˈsoːɹə/
Origin: Japanese; Korean
Meaning: Japanese: sky; Korean: dawn
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Sora has its roots in Japanese, where it means "sky." The etymology can be traced back to the Japanese word "sora" (空), which has been used in various contexts within the language, often symbolizing vastness, freedom, and tranquility. This term is deeply embedded in Japanese culture and literature, reflecting the natural beauty and spiritual significance of the sky in traditional Japanese thought.
The name has also been adopted in other cultures, often retaining its original meaning, but its primary association remains with Japanese origins. Historically, the name Sora has been used in various forms of Japanese literature and art, particularly during the Edo period (1603-1868), when nature and its elements were frequently celebrated.
The sky, as a motif, has appeared in poetry, paintings, and folklore, emphasizing its importance in the cultural consciousness. While there are no specific historical figures named Sora in the same way as more common names, the concept of the sky has been personified in various myths and stories throughout Japanese history, contributing to the name's cultural resonance.
In addition to its literal meaning, Sora carries symbolic associations with freedom and aspiration, often evoking imagery of open spaces and limitless possibilities. This connection to the sky has made it a popular choice in artistic expressions, including music and visual arts, where themes of nature and transcendence are explored.
The name's simplicity and beauty, along with its profound meaning, have allowed it to endure in various contexts, making it a cherished name in Japanese culture and beyond.
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Fictional characters named Sora
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Sora was first seen in the United States in 1972. Sora has ranked as high as #1268 nationally, which occurred in 2023, and has been most popular in New York, California, New Jersey, Texas, and Florida. In the past 5 years the name Sora has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Sora (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 16 | |
| TX | 10 | |
| NY | 9 | |
| NJ | 7 | |
| OH | 6 | |
| FL | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1972 | 6 |
| 1973 | 5 |
| 1974 | 5 |
| 1975 | 8 |
| 1976 | 8 |
| 1977 | 11 |
| 1978 | 6 |
| 1979 | 12 |
| 1980 | 12 |
| 1981 | 10 |
| 1982 | 8 |
| 1983 | 10 |
| 1984 | 11 |
| 1985 | 9 |
| 1986 | 11 |
| 1987 | 7 |
| 1988 | 7 |
| 1989 | 13 |
| 1990 | 9 |
| 1991 | 23 |
| 1992 | 16 |
| 1993 | 17 |
| 1994 | 8 |
| 1995 | 11 |
| 1996 | 17 |
| 1997 | 11 |
| 1998 | 23 |
| 1999 | 12 |
| 2000 | 23 |
| 2001 | 26 |
| 2002 | 22 |
| 2003 | 33 |
| 2004 | 33 |
| 2005 | 36 |
| 2006 | 42 |
| 2007 | 38 |
| 2008 | 39 |
| 2009 | 35 |
| 2010 | 69 |
| 2011 | 52 |
| 2012 | 52 |
| 2013 | 36 |
| 2014 | 69 |
| 2015 | 53 |
| 2016 | 49 |
| 2017 | 66 |
| 2018 | 78 |
| 2019 | 77 |
| 2020 | 82 |
| 2021 | 83 |
| 2022 | 92 |
| 2023 | 108 |
| 2024 | 100 |