“maiden, daughter” — Associated with spring and renewal
English origin · Unisex name
♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls
#93US 2023
2.7kBirths / yr
↓Falling
142.5kAll-time births
📅 Since 1880🏆 39 years in top 1001.15% of births at peak
How to pronounce Cora
KAW·ruh
/ˈkɔ.rə/ · stress on KAW · 2 syllables
“maiden, daughter”
Associated with spring and renewal · English origin
What does Cora mean and where does it come from?
The name Cora has Greek origins related to the goddess Persephone, who was often associated with spring and renewal. It was popular in 18th-century America, especially among female literature characters. The name was also used by authors like Nathaniel Hawthorne in 'The Scarlet Letter'. It has varia
Cultural significance
Cora has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of maiden, daughter.
Declining — down 18 spots — currently #93 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#93 · Top 0.07%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#93
2,749
▼ down 18 · -11% births
2022
#75
3,073
▲ up 12 · +2% births
2021
#87
3,005
▲ up 1
2020
#88
3,007
stable · -12% births
2015
#88
3,401
▲ up 187 · +182% births
2010
#275
1,205
▲ up 177 · +79% births
2005
#452
672
▲ up 29 · +19% births
2000
#481
564
▲ up 198 · +80% births
1995
#679
313
▲ up 176 · +36% births
1990
#855
230
▼ down 87 · +4% births
1985
#768
221
▲ up 2 · +3% births
1980
#770
214
▲ up 5 · +18% births
1975
#775
182
▼ down 98 · -22% births
1970
#677
234
▼ down 184 · -37% births
1965
#493
372
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Cora
1900Rank #55
3,401
#327
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Cora
Cora has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #15 in 1880. More than 142,466 babies have been named Cora since 1880. Cora shows a classic revival pattern — popular in the 1880s, declining mid-century, then surging back in recent decades. Cora is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Cora means "maiden, daughter" — a name rooted in English 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 Cora?
Cora is currently ranked #93 in the United States as a baby 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 Cora?
Cora originates from English tradition. English 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 Cora?
Cora is a two-syllable name pronounced K AO1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Cora more of a girl or boy name?
Cora is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Cora
For a sister
Cora & Alice♡
Cora & Daisy♡
Cora & Eliza♡
Cora & Hallie♡
For a brother
Cora & William♡
Cora & Samuel♡
Cora & Daisy♡
Cora & Eliza♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks