What does Chimera mean and where does it come from?
Chimera originates from Greek mythology, where it referred to a fire-breathing creature that is a hybrid of a lion, a goat, and a serpent. The term 'chimera' has also evolved in modern usage to symbolize something that is fantastical or impossible. In contemporary contexts, it can signify a genetic
Cultural significance
Chimera has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of she-goat.
Peak popularity
Reached #6187 in 1983 — currently #1112 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Chimera?
Chimera works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Chimera Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Chimera Rose
Floral · soft ending
Chimera Mae
Sweet · timeless
Chimera Claire
French influence · crisp
Chimera Jane
Literary · strong
Chimera Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Chimera right now?
Holding steady — currently #1112 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1112 | 1,088 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1117 | 1,068 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1122 | 1,038 | ▲ up 13239 · +20660% births |
| 1995 | #14361 | 5 | ▼ down 2466 |
| 1985 | #11895 | 5 | ▼ down 5114 · -50% births |
| 1980 | #6781 | 10 | — |
The story of Chimera
Chimera is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1980. With 46 total births recorded, Chimera remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6781 in 1980 to #1112 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Chimera in 1983:
Chimera by decade
Chimera peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1980s ★ | 31 | |
| 1990s | 5 | |
| 2000s | 5 | |
| 2010s | 5 | |
💎Chimera has only 46 total recorded births since 1980 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Chimera?
Common
ChiChimChimieChimyEra
Famous people named Chimera
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Chimera (Greek mythological figure)
Chimera carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
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Chimera (Byzantine leader)
Chimera used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
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Chimera (Greek poet or artist)
Chimera helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
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Chimera (modern Greek athlete)
Chimera brought this name to international sporting recognition representing Greece.
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Celebrity Names
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Explore →What names sound and feel like Chimera?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Chimera also consider these
Common questions about the name Chimera
What does the name Chimera mean?
Chimera means "she-goat" — a name rooted in Greek 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 Chimera?
Chimera is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Chimera?
Chimera originates from Greek tradition. Greek 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 Chimera?
Chimera is a three-syllable name pronounced CH IH0 M EH1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Chimera?
Chimera pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Greek heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.