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Tara Girl

Popularity: #704 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: TAH-rah //ˈtɑː.rə//

Origin: Irish; Sanskrit

Meaning: Irish: 'hill'; Sanskrit: 'star'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Tara has its roots in multiple linguistic traditions, primarily deriving from the Sanskrit word "tārā," which means "star." This term has been adopted into various languages and cultures, reflecting its celestial connotation. The name made its way into English through the influence of Irish and Gaelic traditions, where it is associated with the Hill of Tara, a significant historical site in Ireland that served as a ceremonial and political center for ancient Irish kings.

The name's journey into English can be traced through the Gaelic form "Tara," which has been used since at least the early medieval period. Historically, the Hill of Tara is linked to numerous legends and figures in Irish mythology, including the legendary kings of Tara, who were believed to be the rulers of all Ireland.

The site is mentioned in various historical texts, including the "Annals of the Four Masters," a chronicle of medieval Irish history compiled in the 17th century. Additionally, Tara is referenced in the context of the early Christian period, where it became a symbol of Irish identity and heritage.

The name has also appeared in literature and folklore, further embedding it in the cultural consciousness of Ireland. Culturally, Tara has resonated as a symbol of strength and guidance, often associated with leadership and nobility due to its historical ties to kingship.

In Hinduism, the name is also significant, as Tara is a goddess representing the stars and is revered in various forms across different traditions. This dual significance in both Irish and Indian cultures has contributed to the name's enduring appeal.

The diminutive form "Tari" has also been used in some contexts, reflecting the name's adaptability across cultures.

Famous people named Tara

Tara Reid is an actress best known for American Pie, Sharknado, and The Big Lebowski.
Tara Strong is a voice actress best known for Rugrats, The Fairly OddParents, and My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic.
Tara Lipinski is a figure skater and sports commentator best known for winning the 1998 Winter Olympics and being a two-time World Champion.
Tara Brach is a psychologist and author best known for Radical Acceptance, True Refuge, and her teachings on mindfulness and meditation.

Fictional characters named Tara

Tara Maclay is a fictional character from the TV series Buffy the Vampire Slayer. She is a key member of the Scooby Gang and a love interest of Willow Rosenberg.

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U.S. Historical Usage

The name Tara was first seen in the United States in 1939. Tara has ranked as high as #80 nationally, which occurred in 1972, and has been most popular in New York, California, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New Jersey. In the past 5 years the name Tara has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Tara (2024)

State Births Share
CA 47
23%
TX 32
16%
IL 15
7%
NY 14
7%
WA 13
6%
MA 8
4%
NJ 8
4%
IN 7
3%
VA 7
3%
NC 7
3%
LA 6
3%
MN 6
3%
GA 6
3%
OH 6
3%
PA 5
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19397
194013
194114
194221
194324
194427
194528
194656
194746
194873
194990
1950102
195199
1952140
1953151
1954259
1955432
1956452
1957463
1958467
1959610
1960684
1961942
19621,094
19631,129
19641,241
19651,168
19661,291
19671,288
19682,186
19693,520
19705,330
19716,335
19727,234
19736,708
19746,656
19756,455
19766,020
19777,198
19786,330
19796,806
19806,284
19816,366
19826,524
19836,273
19846,284
19856,102
19865,085
19874,446
19884,606
19894,370
19903,826
19913,326
19922,837
19932,476
19942,185
19952,024
19961,899
19971,768
19981,637
19991,393
20001,338
20011,159
20021,060
2003927
2004977
2005929
2006685
2007581
2008491
2009425
2010355
2011303
2012336
2013282
2014301
2015301
2016261
2017265
2018250
2019256
2020201
2021212
2022240
2023208
2024247