Myra is a name of Greek origin that has been used in several cultures throughout history. It is derived from the ancient Greek city of Myra, which was located in modern-day Turkey. The city was named after the god Myr, who was associated with fire and light.
The name Myra has several possible meanings depending on its cultural context. In Greek mythology, it was believed that Myr was a deity who brought light and illumination to the world. As such, the name Myra may have been chosen for girls born during times of darkness or uncertainty, as it was thought that they would bring light and hope into their families' lives.
In other cultures, the name Myra has been associated with different meanings. In some traditions, it is believed to mean "myrrh," a fragrant resin used in ancient perfumes and medicines. This association may have given rise to the belief that girls named Myra were destined for a life of beauty or healing.
Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Myra. One of the most famous was Saint Myra, who was a Christian martyr during the Roman Empire. She is believed to have been a young woman who refused to renounce her faith and was executed as a result. Her bravery and devotion have made her a revered figure in the Christian tradition, and her name has been associated with courage and faith ever since.
In more recent times, Myra has become a popular given name for girls around the world. It has been particularly common in English-speaking countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, where it has been used as both a first and middle name. Today, people named Myra are found in many different walks of life, from writers and artists to scientists and politicians.
Overall, the name Myra is one that carries with it a rich history and several possible meanings depending on its cultural context. Whether chosen for its association with light, beauty, courage, or some other reason, it remains a unique and memorable name for girls today.
The name Myra has been popular among parents in the United States for over a century, with a total of 63,028 babies given this name since 1880. The height of its popularity was during the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1940s to the early 1960s, when it consistently ranked among the top 1,000 baby names each year.
Interestingly, the name Myra has seen a recent resurgence in popularity. After falling out of favor in the late 20th century, with fewer than 50 babies named Myra per year between 1976 and 1999, it began to make a comeback in the early 2000s. Since then, the number of babies named Myra has been steadily increasing, reaching over 500 births annually by the late 2010s.
In fact, the name Myra has been among the top 1,000 baby names for girls in the United States every year since 2009. This consistent popularity is a testament to its enduring appeal and timelessness as a name choice for parents across generations.
Additionally, the name Myra has shown remarkable longevity, with no significant gaps in its usage over the past 143 years. This consistency suggests that the name has maintained a steady presence among American families throughout the decades, reflecting its classic and versatile nature.