Nora is a charming and timeless female given name with roots tracing back to various cultures and languages. Derived from the Latin word "honor," which means "honor" or "honesty," Nora conveys a sense of dignity, respect, and integrity.
In some cases, Nora can also be considered a short form of the Greek name Honoria, meaning "of noble birth." This connection further emphasizes the name's association with elegance and refinement. Additionally, Nora is often associated with Scandinavian countries, where it is believed to mean "light" in Norse mythology.
Throughout history, Nora has been popular among numerous cultures and societies. In literature, the most notable figure named Nora is likely Nora Helmer from Henrik Ibsen's iconic play "A Doll's House." While the character's name may have contributed to a surge in popularity for the moniker during the late 19th century, Nora had already been in use as a given name prior to the play's debut.
Today, Nora continues to captivate parents and individuals alike with its enchanting sound and inspiring meaning. It has consistently ranked among the top 1000 baby names in the United States since the early 20th century, demonstrating its enduring appeal across generations. Regardless of cultural background or personal beliefs, those who bear the name Nora carry a powerful and evocative title that celebrates their inner strength and grace.
The name Nora experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years, with its peak occurring relatively recently. The number of babies named Nora was lowest in the late 19th century, with around 471 births per year between 1880 and 1892. It began to gain traction in the early 20th century, reaching a thousand births per year by 1914 (1,038 births). The name's popularity surged after World War II, with over 1,500 births per year recorded from 1960 onwards. Nora reached its zenith in 2017 and 2018, with over 6,000 births each year. Despite a slight dip to around 5,500 births per year between 2019 and 2022, it remains one of the most popular names for newborn girls today.