What does Dera mean and where does it come from?
The name Dera may have multiple origins, including English and various African languages. In some contexts, it is used as a short form or variation of other names like Deirdre. It conveys the meaning of 'gift,' reflecting a positive sentiment related to the birth of a child. The name is relatively r
Cultural significance
Dera has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of gift.
Peak popularity
Reached #1607 in 1893 — currently #1009 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Dera?
Dera works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Dera Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Dera Rose
Floral · soft ending
Dera Claire
French influence · crisp
Dera Jane
Literary · strong
Dera Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Dera right now?
Holding steady — currently #1009 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1009 | 1,191 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1014 | 1,171 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1019 | 1,141 | ▲ up 3745 · +7507% births |
| 1980 | #4764 | 15 | ▲ up 4412 · +200% births |
| 1975 | #9176 | 5 | ▼ down 3818 · -29% births |
| 1965 | #5358 | 7 | ▲ up 423 · +17% births |
| 1960 | #5781 | 6 | ▼ down 480 |
| 1955 | #5301 | 6 | ▼ down 617 · +20% births |
| 1945 | #4684 | 5 | ▼ down 1457 · -37% births |
| 1935 | #3227 | 8 | ▲ up 1441 · +60% births |
| 1930 | #4668 | 5 | ▼ down 1237 · -44% births |
| 1925 | #3431 | 9 | ▼ down 461 · -18% births |
| 1920 | #2970 | 11 | ▼ down 969 · -31% births |
| 1915 | #2001 | 16 | ▲ up 69 · +220% births |
| 1900 | #2070 | 5 | — |
The story of Dera
Dera has been a beloved American name for over 131 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1893. With 440 total births recorded, Dera remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2070 in 1900 to #1009 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Dera in 1893:
Dera by decade
Dera peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 10 | |
| 1900s | 21 | |
| 1910s ★ | 71 | |
| 1920s | 71 | |
| 1930s | 42 | |
| 1940s | 38 | |
| 1950s | 53 | |
| 1960s | 41 | |
| 1970s | 12 | |
| 1980s | 35 | |
| 1990s | 31 | |
| 2000s | 15 | |
💎Dera has only 440 total recorded births since 1893 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Dera?
What names sound and feel like Dera?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dera also consider these
Common questions about the name Dera
What does the name Dera mean?
Dera means "Gift" — 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 Dera?
Dera 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 Dera?
Dera 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.
Is Dera a common or rare name?
Dera is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What personality traits are associated with the name Dera?
Studies on name perception suggest that Dera 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.