Cleopatra, a moniker of ancient and regal origins, is derived from the Greek word 'Kleopatros', which translates to 'glory of her father'. This name was popularized by Cleopatra VII Philopator, the last Pharaoh of Ancient Egypt who ruled around 51-30 BCE. Often remembered for her strategic political alliances and love affairs with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, Cleopatra is considered one of history's most famous female figures. The name has since been used to denote grandeur and power, and remains a popular choice among parents today, often shortened affectionately to Cleo or Patra.
The name Cleopatra has seen fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a significant increase in usage starting around the late 1800s. The peak of its popularity seems to have been between 1914 and 1927, during which time there were over 30 births per year each year except for 1925 (24 births) and 1926 (22 births). After 1927, the number of annual births with the name Cleopatra began to decline, reaching a low point in the late 1930s to early 1940s, with fewer than 10 births per year. There was another brief spike in popularity between 1968 and 1975, with over 20 births per year each year except for 1970 (6 births) and 1973 (35 births). Since then, the name Cleopatra has been used steadily but less frequently, with fewer than 30 births per year. However, there was a notable increase in usage again between 2016 and 2022, with over 25 births per year each year except for 2017 (29 births). In total, the name Cleopatra has been given to 2392 babies since 1889.