What does Dara mean and where does it come from?
Dara is a name with Irish and Hebrew origins. In Irish, it means 'oak tree', symbolizing strength and stability. In Hebrew, it derives from the word 'דָּרָה', which connotes nurturing or teaching. This name has been historically used in Ireland and is often associated with leadership and wisdom. It
Cultural significance
Dara has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of irish.
Peak popularity
Reached #470 in 1981 — currently #1129 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Dara?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Dara?
Dara works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Dara Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Dara Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Dara Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Dara Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Dara Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Dara Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Dara right now?
Falling — down 95 spots — currently #1129 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1129 | 207 | ▼ down 95 · -15% births |
| 2024 | #1034 | 244 | ▲ up 832 · +128% births |
| 2023 | #1866 | 107 | ▼ down 386 · -28% births |
| 2022 | #1480 | 148 | ▲ up 107 · +12% births |
| 2021 | #1587 | 132 | ▼ down 263 · -20% births |
| 2020 | #1324 | 165 | ▲ up 1385 · +154% births |
| 2015 | #2709 | 65 | ▼ down 283 · -16% births |
| 2010 | #2426 | 77 | ▼ down 454 · -21% births |
| 2005 | #1972 | 97 | ▼ down 702 · -37% births |
| 2000 | #1270 | 153 | ▼ down 178 · -6% births |
| 1995 | #1092 | 163 | ▼ down 208 · -26% births |
| 1990 | #884 | 219 | ▼ down 117 · -1% births |
| 1985 | #767 | 222 | ▼ down 281 · -48% births |
| 1980 | #486 | 431 | ▲ up 192 · +95% births |
| 1975 | #678 | 221 | — |
The story of Dara
Dara has been a beloved American name for over 131 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1893. A total of 13,522 babies have received this name. Dara is used for both genders: 95% female and 5% male.
Names that peaked alongside Dara in 1981:
Dara by decade
Dara peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 5 | |
| 1900s | 11 | |
| 1910s | 54 | |
| 1920s | 85 | |
| 1930s | 46 | |
| 1940s | 212 | |
| 1950s | 977 | |
| 1960s | 1,859 | |
| 1970s | 2,680 | |
| 1980s ★ | 3,089 | |
| 1990s | 1,997 | |
| 2000s | 1,190 | |
| 2010s | 1,123 | |
| 2020s | 725 | |
What are good nicknames for Dara?
What names sound and feel like Dara?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dara also consider these
Common questions about the name Dara
What does the name Dara mean?
Dara means "Irish" — a name rooted in Ireland 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 Dara?
Dara is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Dara?
Dara originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland 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 Dara?
Dara is a two-syllable name pronounced DAR-uh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Dara a common or rare name?
Dara is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.