What does Dedra mean and where does it come from?
Dedra is a variant of the name Deirdre, which has roots in Irish mythology. The name Deirdre (Derdriu in Irish) is often associated with a tragic heroine in the legend of Deirdre of the Sorrows. Dedra gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century but is less common today. Notabl
Cultural significance
Dedra has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #739 in 1968 — currently #603 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Dedra?
Dedra works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Dedra Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Dedra Rose
Floral · soft ending
Dedra Mae
Sweet · timeless
Dedra Claire
French influence · crisp
Dedra Jane
Literary · strong
Dedra Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Dedra right now?
Holding steady — currently #603 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #603 | 1,597 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #608 | 1,577 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #613 | 1,547 | ▲ up 16158 · +30840% births |
| 2005 | #16771 | 5 | ▼ down 11028 · -74% births |
| 2000 | #5743 | 19 | ▼ down 1360 · -17% births |
| 1995 | #4383 | 23 | ▼ down 2060 · -57% births |
| 1990 | #2323 | 54 | ▼ down 546 · -16% births |
| 1985 | #1777 | 64 | ▼ down 453 · -33% births |
| 1980 | #1324 | 96 | ▼ down 140 · -2% births |
| 1975 | #1184 | 98 | ▼ down 346 · -40% births |
| 1970 | #838 | 163 | ▼ down 36 · +7% births |
| 1965 | #802 | 153 | ▲ up 140 · +19% births |
| 1960 | #942 | 129 | ▲ up 783 · +249% births |
| 1955 | #1725 | 37 | ▲ up 523 · +85% births |
| 1950 | #2248 | 20 | — |
The story of Dedra
Dedra entered American naming records in 1944 and has been in use for over 80 years. With 4,418 total births recorded, Dedra remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2236 in 1945 to #603 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Dedra in 1968:
Dedra by decade
Dedra peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 102 | |
| 1950s | 404 | |
| 1960s ★ | 1,641 | |
| 1970s | 1,170 | |
| 1980s | 653 | |
| 1990s | 361 | |
| 2000s | 87 | |
💎With 4,418 total births, Dedra is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Dedra?
What names sound and feel like Dedra?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dedra also consider these
Common questions about the name Dedra
What does the name Dedra mean?
Dedra means "English" — a name rooted in American 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 Dedra?
Dedra is currently ranked #603 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 Dedra?
Dedra originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
What are good nicknames for Dedra?
Dedra naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.
What personality traits are associated with the name Dedra?
Studies on name perception suggest that Dedra is often associated with balance and approachability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.