Meera is a charming and unique name of Indian origin. Derived from the Sanskrit word "Mira," which means "sea" or "limitless," Meera signifies vastness, depth, and boundlessness.
The name has a rich history, with notable figures bearing it throughout time. One of the most famous was Meerabai, a 16th-century Hindu poet and devotee of Lord Krishna. She was known for her spiritual poetry and songs, many of which are still sung today in temples across India. Her devotion to Krishna earned her the title "Meerabai," with "Mira" being a term of endearment for him.
In literature, Meera also appears as a character in "Meera," a play written by Indian playwright Girish Karnad. The play tells the story of Meerabai's life and her spiritual journey.
While Meera may not be as commonly used today as some other Indian names, it remains a beautiful and meaningful choice for parents seeking a unique name with deep roots and significant history. It also offers flexibility in spelling, with variations such as Mira and Myra being equally recognized.
The name Meera has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States, with a total of 3790 babies being named Meera between 1965 and 2023.
In the early years recorded, from 1965 to 1978, the number of births with the name Meera was relatively low, ranging from 5 to 14 per year. However, starting in 1979, there was a noticeable uptick in popularity, with 22 babies named Meera born that year.
The peak in popularity for the name Meera occurred between 2013 and 2022, with over 150 births each year. In fact, 2021 saw the highest number of births with the name Meera at 210, followed closely by 210 births in 2019.
Despite a slight dip in popularity in recent years, with 182 births in 2023, the name Meera continues to be popular among parents in the United States. It will be interesting to see how its popularity trends in the coming years.