Dara is a unique and captivating name of Irish origin. It means "oak" or "peaceful," making it a strong and serene choice for a baby's name. In Irish mythology, the Oak tree is considered sacred and is associated with the druids, who were the wise men and guardians of ancient Ireland.
The name Dara gained prominence in Ireland during the Middle Ages, when it was borne by several important historical figures. One notable example is Diarmait Mac Murchada, a 12th-century king of Leinster, whose story is intertwined with the legend of Strongbow, the Norman conqueror of Ireland.
Dara also has a connection to the Catholic Church in Ireland. Saint Dara was an Irish saint who lived during the 6th century. He is remembered for his piety and his dedication to the spread of Christianity throughout Ireland. His feast day is celebrated on October 24th.
Today, Dara continues to be a popular name choice among Irish families, both in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora around the world. Its unique combination of strength and serenity makes it an appealing option for parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful name for their child.
In conclusion, Dara is a captivating name with deep roots in Irish history and mythology. Whether you're drawn to its powerful meaning or its rich cultural heritage, choosing the name Dara ensures that your child will carry a piece of Ireland's proud legacy with them wherever they go.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Dara has seen varying popularity over the years in the United States. The earliest recorded birth with the name Dara was in 1955, with a total of 6 births that year. The popularity of the name grew steadily throughout the 1980s and reached its peak in the mid-1980s, with 39 births in 1985.
However, after this peak, the popularity of the name began to decline. Between 1986 and 2002, the number of births with the name Dara ranged between a low of 7 births in 2002 and a high of 23 births in 1993.
Despite the decline in popularity, the name Dara has continued to be given to babies each year. Since 2003, there have been at least 6 births with the name each year, with some years seeing as many as 38 births (in 2022). Overall, since 1955, there have been a total of 775 births with the name Dara in the United States.
While the popularity of the name has varied over the years, it is clear that Dara remains a recognizable and unique name choice for parents in the United States.