Ira is a unique and captivating name of Hebrew origin, meaning "watchful" or "vigilant." The name is derived from the Hebrew word "irah," which signifies watchfulness and attention. In some interpretations, Ira is also associated with the concept of light and illumination.
The name Ira has a rich history that dates back to biblical times. In the Old Testament, Ira was one of King David's mighty warriors. He was a son of Ikkesh from Tekoa and was part of the thirty elite soldiers known as "David's Three." This historical connection has contributed to the name Ira being associated with strength, courage, and loyalty.
Throughout history, the name Ira has been used by various notable figures. One of the most famous is IRA (Irish Republican Army), a paramilitary organization that fought for Irish independence during the early 20th century. However, it's essential not to confuse this organization with the personal name Ira, as they share only the acronym and have distinct contexts.
In literature and arts, Ira has been adopted by several characters and artists. For instance, Ira Aldridge was a notable Shakespearean actor of African descent in the 19th century, while Ira Glass is an American public radio journalist known for his work on the show "This American Life." These figures have helped to shape the perception of the name Ira as one that signifies talent, creativity, and intelligence.
Today, Ira remains a relatively uncommon name, which adds to its uniqueness. While it is more frequently used by males, it has also been adopted by females in recent years, contributing to its unisex appeal. Overall, the name Ira carries a powerful and meaningful legacy that continues to captivate people around the world.
The name Ira has seen a varied range of popularity over the years in the United States, as indicated by the statistics provided for the number of births each year since 1880.
In the late 19th century, the name Ira experienced several fluctuations in its popularity. Between 1880 and 1899, the number of births each year ranged from a low of 138 in 1899 to a high of 394 in 1912. However, the overall trend during this period was an increase in the number of births with the name Ira.
The early 20th century saw a significant rise in the popularity of the name Ira. Between 1900 and 1950, the number of births each year consistently remained above 300, reaching a peak of 884 births in 1947. This period marked the height of the name's popularity in the United States.
However, after 1950, there was a gradual decrease in the popularity of the name Ira. Between 1951 and 2000, the number of births each year dropped significantly, from a high of 760 in 1951 to a low of 88 in 2001.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of the name Ira. Between 2002 and 2023, the number of births each year has increased steadily, from a low of 105 in 2003 to a high of 301 in 2021. This recent trend indicates that the name Ira is once again gaining popularity among parents in the United States.
Overall, the statistics show that while the popularity of the name Ira has fluctuated over time, it has remained a consistent choice for parents in the United States since the late 19th century. Despite its ups and downs, Ira continues to be a popular name with a rich history and enduring appeal.