Mira is a female given name of Spanish origin, derived from the word "mar", which means "sea". It is also associated with the Latin word "mirus", meaning "wonderful" or "amazing".
The name Mira has been popular among various cultures throughout history. In ancient Rome, it was often used as a nickname for women named Miriam, which means "sea of bitterness" in Hebrew. In India, Mira is considered a sacred name, associated with the Hindu goddesses Lakshmi and Saraswati.
One notable historical figure with the name Mira was Saint Mirabai, also known as Meera Bai, who lived during the 15th century in Rajasthan, India. She was a poet and devotee of the Hindu god Krishna, and her songs and poems are still widely celebrated today.
In recent years, the name Mira has gained popularity in various parts of the world, including Spain, France, Germany, Sweden, and the United States. It is often used as a middle name or given name for girls, and its popularity may be attributed to its unique sound and positive connotations.
Overall, the name Mira carries a rich history and cultural significance, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their daughter.
The name Mira has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. While it was relatively uncommon throughout much of the early to mid-20th century, with fewer than 5 births per year from 1903 to 1968, Mira began to gain traction in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
The turning point came in 1971 when there were 47 recorded births of girls named Mira. This number steadily increased throughout the 1970s and 1980s, reaching a peak of 57 births in 1994. However, it was not until the turn of the century that Mira's popularity truly exploded.
From 2000 onwards, there has been a significant upward trend in the number of girls named Mira at birth each year. In fact, between 2000 and 2023, the total number of births recorded for this name has increased by over 12,000%, from just 174 births in 2000 to an impressive 740 births in 2023.
This upward trend is reflective of a broader shift towards unique and meaningful names in recent years. Mira's popularity may be attributed to its positive connotations, as it means "sea" or "ocean" in many languages, symbolizing vastness and depth. Additionally, the name has gained prominence through notable figures such as astronomer Mircea Eliade and Italian artist Mira Birtles.
In conclusion, while the name Mira was once relatively uncommon, its popularity has surged over the past two decades, with thousands of parents choosing this name for their daughters each year. This trend is likely to continue as more parents seek unique and meaningful names for their children.