Lenora Girl
Origin(s)
Pronunciationluh-NOR-uh / /ləˈnɔːrə/Latin; Greek
Meaning
Latin: light; Greek: compassion
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Lenora is believed to have originated as a variant of the name Eleanor, which itself derives from the Old Provençal name Alienor. The etymology of Eleanor can be traced back to the Latin name Alia Aenor, meaning "the other Aenor." The name Aenor is of uncertain origin, but it is thought to be of Germanic roots, possibly linked to the Old High German name Aenor, which means "the one who is gracious." The transition from Alia Aenor to Eleanor occurred as the name was adopted into various languages, including French and English, particularly during the medieval period when Eleanor of Aquitaine became a prominent historical figure in the 12th century, influencing the name's popularity in England.
Throughout history, the name Lenora has been associated with various cultural and literary figures. One notable milestone is its appearance in the works of Edgar Allan Poe, particularly in his poem "Lenore," published in the 19th century, which contributed to the name's romantic and melancholic connotations. The name has also been used in various literary works and operas, further embedding it in the cultural consciousness. The use of Lenora in literature often evokes themes of beauty, loss, and longing, resonating with audiences across different eras.
Culturally, Lenora has been linked to notions of light and compassion, stemming from its roots in names that signify grace and favor. The name has been embraced in various forms across different cultures, with diminutive forms like Nora emerging as affectionate alternatives. This adaptability has allowed Lenora to maintain its relevance and charm throughout the centuries, reflecting a blend of historical significance and enduring appeal.
Trend Summary
Lenora has seen a gradual increase in popularity in the United States over the past few decades.
Similar Names
Variants
- Leonora
- Elenora
International Variants
- Leonor (Spanish)
- Eleonora (Italian)
- Lenore (English)
Famous people named Lenora
Lenora Crichlow is an actress best known for Being Human, Sugar Rush, and The Bill.
Lenora B. Fulani is a psychologist best known for being the first woman to appear on the ballot for President of the United States in 1988.
Lenora H. McCoy is a writer best known for her contributions to various literary journals and anthologies.
Fictional characters named Lenora
Lenora is a fictional character from the video game series The Legend of Zelda. She is a key figure in the lore surrounding the series, often associated with themes of courage and destiny.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Lenora was first seen in the United States in 1880. Lenora has ranked as high as #432 nationally, which occurred in 1924, and has been most popular in New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, California, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Lenora has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Lenora (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| OH | 27 | |
| IN | 23 | |
| CA | 23 | |
| TX | 19 | |
| MO | 18 | |
| TN | 16 | |
| NC | 16 | |
| WA | 16 | |
| CO | 14 | |
| FL | 13 | |
| PA | 13 | |
| IL | 13 | |
| NY | 12 | |
| MA | 11 | |
| WI | 11 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880 | 66 |
| 1881 | 68 |
| 1882 | 70 |
| 1883 | 66 |
| 1884 | 73 |
| 1885 | 73 |
| 1886 | 75 |
| 1887 | 98 |
| 1888 | 105 |
| 1889 | 91 |
| 1890 | 102 |
| 1891 | 95 |
| 1892 | 120 |
| 1893 | 93 |
| 1894 | 101 |
| 1895 | 103 |
| 1896 | 134 |
| 1897 | 133 |
| 1898 | 135 |
| 1899 | 92 |
| 1900 | 153 |
| 1901 | 118 |
| 1902 | 129 |
| 1903 | 132 |
| 1904 | 138 |
| 1905 | 160 |
| 1906 | 176 |
| 1907 | 166 |
| 1908 | 180 |
| 1909 | 189 |
| 1910 | 214 |
| 1911 | 211 |
| 1912 | 281 |
| 1913 | 289 |
| 1914 | 396 |
| 1915 | 543 |
| 1916 | 532 |
| 1917 | 516 |
| 1918 | 563 |
| 1919 | 493 |
| 1920 | 595 |
| 1921 | 621 |
| 1922 | 651 |
| 1923 | 589 |
| 1924 | 678 |
| 1925 | 615 |
| 1926 | 611 |
| 1927 | 645 |
| 1928 | 608 |
| 1929 | 480 |
| 1930 | 523 |
| 1931 | 440 |
| 1932 | 481 |
| 1933 | 460 |
| 1934 | 459 |
| 1935 | 462 |
| 1936 | 392 |
| 1937 | 420 |
| 1938 | 390 |
| 1939 | 429 |
| 1940 | 410 |
| 1941 | 440 |
| 1942 | 440 |
| 1943 | 433 |
| 1944 | 382 |
| 1945 | 332 |
| 1946 | 363 |
| 1947 | 412 |
| 1948 | 403 |
| 1949 | 408 |
| 1950 | 433 |
| 1951 | 410 |
| 1952 | 425 |
| 1953 | 428 |
| 1954 | 402 |
| 1955 | 429 |
| 1956 | 515 |
| 1957 | 579 |
| 1958 | 478 |
| 1959 | 489 |
| 1960 | 473 |
| 1961 | 449 |
| 1962 | 393 |
| 1963 | 378 |
| 1964 | 376 |
| 1965 | 339 |
| 1966 | 290 |
| 1967 | 339 |
| 1968 | 278 |
| 1969 | 245 |
| 1970 | 238 |
| 1971 | 222 |
| 1972 | 186 |
| 1973 | 159 |
| 1974 | 151 |
| 1975 | 146 |
| 1976 | 124 |
| 1977 | 103 |
| 1978 | 101 |
| 1979 | 97 |
| 1980 | 103 |
| 1981 | 126 |
| 1982 | 94 |
| 1983 | 101 |
| 1984 | 81 |
| 1985 | 86 |
| 1986 | 68 |
| 1987 | 91 |
| 1988 | 80 |
| 1989 | 84 |
| 1990 | 59 |
| 1991 | 73 |
| 1992 | 62 |
| 1993 | 51 |
| 1994 | 59 |
| 1995 | 38 |
| 1996 | 41 |
| 1997 | 36 |
| 1998 | 31 |
| 1999 | 41 |
| 2000 | 45 |
| 2001 | 39 |
| 2002 | 31 |
| 2003 | 49 |
| 2004 | 46 |
| 2005 | 53 |
| 2006 | 38 |
| 2007 | 59 |
| 2008 | 44 |
| 2009 | 61 |
| 2010 | 69 |
| 2011 | 67 |
| 2012 | 89 |
| 2013 | 127 |
| 2014 | 136 |
| 2015 | 133 |
| 2016 | 174 |
| 2017 | 193 |
| 2018 | 191 |
| 2019 | 222 |
| 2020 | 219 |
| 2021 | 235 |
| 2022 | 290 |
| 2023 | 368 |
| 2024 | 392 |