Moira is a unique and captivating female given name of Scottish origin. The name is derived from the Scottish Gaelic word "Moire," which means "sea-borne" or "sea-may." This name has deep roots in Celtic mythology, as Moira is also one of the three Fates who are believed to determine the course of life for every individual.
The name Moira has been popular among Scottish families for centuries and was traditionally given to girls born near the coast or with a strong connection to the sea. However, its meaning and significance have evolved over time, making it appealing to parents around the world looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their daughter.
In literature and pop culture, Moira has been used as a character name in various works, further contributing to its recognition and appeal. Examples include Moira Rose from the Canadian comedy series "Schitt's Creek" and Moiraine Damodred from the fantasy novel series "The Wheel of Time" by Robert Jordan.
Overall, the name Moira is an enchanting choice for parents seeking a distinctive and significant name for their daughter, with roots in Scottish history and mythology, and a timeless appeal that transcends cultural boundaries.
The popularity of the name Moira has seen significant fluctuations over the years. It peaked between the late 1940s and early 1950s, with over 80 births annually from 1947 to 1953. The highest point was in 1954 with 91 births. After this peak, there was a steady decline until the mid-1960s when it stabilized around 90-120 births per year for about two decades. Since then, Moira's popularity has continued to decrease, with fewer than 100 births annually in recent years, reaching as low as 51 in 1989 and 94 in 2022. Overall, there have been a total of 7742 Moira births from 1913 to 2023.