What does Chara mean and where does it come from?
Chara is a name of Greek origin, meaning 'joy' or 'delight' (χάρα). It can be found in ancient literature and is symbolic of happiness and brightness. The name has taken on popularity in the United States in the modern era. Although not exceedingly common, it evokes positive feelings, making it appe
Cultural significance
Chara has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of joy, delight.
Peak popularity
Reached #2278 in 1976 — currently #13779 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Chara?
Chara works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Chara Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Chara Rose
Floral · soft ending
Chara Mae
Sweet · timeless
Chara Claire
French influence · crisp
Chara Jane
Literary · strong
Chara Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Chara right now?
Rising fast — up 2004 spots — currently #13779 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #13779 | 6 | ▲ up 2004 · +20% births |
| 2022 | #15783 | 5 | ▼ down 4455 · -37% births |
| 2021 | #11328 | 8 | ▼ down 2329 · -27% births |
| 2020 | #8999 | 11 | ▲ up 16 · -8% births |
| 2015 | #9015 | 12 | ▲ up 3452 · +50% births |
| 2010 | #12467 | 8 | ▲ up 2337 · +33% births |
| 2005 | #14804 | 6 | ▼ down 8231 · -62% births |
| 2000 | #6573 | 16 | ▼ down 200 · +14% births |
| 1995 | #6373 | 14 | ▼ down 1237 · -22% births |
| 1990 | #5136 | 18 | ▼ down 1574 · -25% births |
| 1985 | #3562 | 24 | ▼ down 928 · -33% births |
| 1980 | #2634 | 36 | ▼ down 83 · +16% births |
| 1975 | #2551 | 31 | ▲ up 1429 · +107% births |
| 1970 | #3980 | 15 | ▲ up 1137 · +88% births |
| 1960 | #5117 | 8 | — |
The story of Chara
Chara entered American naming records in 1956 and has been in use for over 68 years. With 986 total births recorded, Chara remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5117 in 1960, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #13779 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Chara in 1976:
Chara by decade
Chara peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 11 | |
| 1960s | 73 | |
| 1970s | 268 | |
| 1980s ★ | 275 | |
| 1990s | 144 | |
| 2000s | 108 | |
| 2010s | 96 | |
| 2020s | 11 | |
💎Chara has only 986 total recorded births since 1956 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Chara?
What names sound and feel like Chara?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Chara also consider these
How is Chara written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Chara
What does the name Chara mean?
Chara means "Joy, delight" — a name rooted in Greece tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Chara?
Chara is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Chara?
Chara originates from Greece tradition. Greece names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Chara?
Chara is a two-syllable name pronounced CH AA1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Chara a common or rare name?
Chara is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.