Demetra is a feminine given name of Greek origin. It comes from the Greek word "Δήμητρα" which means "earth mother." This name has been associated with the Greek goddess Demeter, who was the goddess of agriculture and fertility.
According to Greek mythology, Demeter is best known for her daughter Persephone, whom she bore with Zeus, the king of gods. When Hades abducted Persephone into the underworld, Demeter searched for her daughter tirelessly and refused to let any crops grow while her daughter was gone. This period without crops corresponds to winter in Greek mythology.
Demetra has been used as a given name for centuries and can be found throughout Greece and other regions with a Greek influence. Today, it is still popular among families who wish to pay homage to their Greek heritage or those who simply appreciate the meaning behind this unique and beautiful name.
In some cases, Demetra may also be spelled as Demeter or Dimitra, although these variations do not change its origin or meaning. Overall, Demetra is a powerful and meaningful name that embodies the nurturing spirit of mother earth herself.
The name Demetra experienced significant fluctuations in popularity throughout the century, with a peak of 124 births in 1966 and a low of 6 births in 2023. From the 1950s onwards, there was a noticeable increase in its usage, reaching a high point in the late 1960s to early 1970s before declining steadily from the mid-1980s onward. By the end of the 20th century and into the 21st, Demetra has become quite rare, with fewer than 20 births per year since 2000.