Elnora is a unique and captivating feminine given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname "Earlenoor," which itself is believed to have been created as a nickname for someone who resembled or had the bearing of an earl's daughter.
The name Elnora has a distinctively regal sound to it, reflecting its aristocratic origins. However, despite its noble roots, it is not particularly common and retains a certain uniqueness that makes it appealing to those seeking a distinctive yet classic name for their child.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures with the name Elnora. One of the most famous was Elnora Carrington, an American actress who appeared in numerous films during the silent era. Despite her relatively short career, she left behind a lasting legacy and is remembered fondly by film enthusiasts today.
In literature, Elnora is also notable as the protagonist of "Hillsboro People," a novel written by American author Ann Nolan Clark. The story follows Elnora's life in rural Indiana during the early 20th century, providing insight into the experiences and struggles faced by women living in that time period.
Overall, Elnora is an intriguing name with a rich history and a unique blend of regal elegance and distinctive charm. Whether you're drawn to its Scottish origins, impressed by its notable namesakes, or simply appreciate its beautiful sound, choosing Elnora as a given name is sure to result in a memorable choice.
The name Elnora has been used consistently over the years in the United States, with a total of 21,321 births recorded from 1880 to 2023.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Elnora was quite popular. The number of births peaked in 1924 with 639 babies named Elnora, marking a significant increase compared to previous years. This trend continued until around 1930, with several hundred babies being named Elnora annually.
However, from the mid-1930s onwards, the popularity of the name began to decline gradually. By the late 1950s and early 1960s, there were fewer than 100 births each year with the name Elnora. This downward trend continued into the 21st century.
In recent years, the name Elnora has seen a resurgence in popularity, though it remains relatively uncommon compared to its peak decades. In 2023 alone, there were 34 babies named Elnora, marking a significant increase from previous years and indicating that this historic name may be regaining some favor among parents today.
Overall, the statistics show that while Elnora has not been one of the most popular names in U.S. history, it has enjoyed periods of moderate popularity and continues to be chosen by parents even now, over a century after its first recorded usage.