Ira is a unique and distinctive given name with roots tracing back to various origins and cultures.
In Hebrew, the name Ira means "watchful" or "vigilant." It originates from the Hebrew word "irah," which translates to "watchman" or "guardian." In the Bible, Ira is mentioned as one of King David's mighty warriors. He was a priest who served as a sentinel over the ark of the covenant.
In Russia, Ira is a diminutive form of the name Irene, which means "peace" in Greek. This usage is more common in Slavic cultures and has gained popularity as a given name independently from its Hebrew counterpart.
Historically, the name Ira has been used by various notable figures throughout history. For instance, there was an ancient Assyrian king named Ira who ruled around 730 BCE. Additionally, in literature, Ira Aldridge was an African-American actor born into slavery but gained fame for his roles on the British stage during the 19th century.
Today, Ira is still used as a given name, primarily among families with Jewish or Russian heritage, but also by those who appreciate its unique sound and historical significance. It remains a rare find among baby names, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for something distinctive yet meaningful for their child.
The name Ira experienced a significant decline in popularity over time, with the number of births peaking in the early 20th century and reaching an all-time low in recent years. Between 1880 and 2023, there were a total of 6748 babies named Ira. The most popular period for the name was between 1910 and 1930, with over 25 births per year during this time. However, since the 1970s, the popularity of the name has steadily declined, with fewer than 25 births per year recorded each decade until reaching a low of just 8 births in 2023. Despite its decline in usage, Ira remains an historically significant name with deep roots in American culture.