Dedra is a name of uncertain origin and meaning. Some sources suggest that it may have originated as a variant spelling of the name "Deidre," which is of Irish origin and means "dark-haired" or "sorrow." However, there is no concrete evidence to support this claim.
The name Dedra first appeared in the United States in the late 19th century, but it was not until the mid-20th century that it began to gain popularity. In the years between 1950 and 1970, the name peaked in popularity, reaching its highest rank of #436 in 1968.
Despite its uncertain origins and meaning, Dedra is a unique and distinctive name that has been carried by several notable individuals throughout history. One famous bearer of the name is American actress Dedra Woods, who was born in 1975 and is best known for her role in the television series "The Wire."
Overall, while the origin and meaning of the name Dedra may remain somewhat mysterious, it has nevertheless left its mark on history through the accomplishments of those who have borne it.
The name Dedra experienced a steady decline in popularity over the decades, with its peak in the early 1960s and reaching an all-time low in the mid-2000s.