What does Detra mean and where does it come from?
Detra is a modern American name that may be derived as a variant of the name 'Debra,' which originates from Hebrew meaning 'bee.' Though Detra is not widely recognized in historical texts, it has gained some popularity in the United States since the mid-20th century. It is often considered a unique
Cultural significance
Detra has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of belonging to the god of the sea.
Peak popularity
Reached #1061 in 1966 — currently #554 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Detra?
Detra works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Detra Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Detra Rose
Floral · soft ending
Detra Mae
Sweet · timeless
Detra Claire
French influence · crisp
Detra Jane
Literary · strong
Detra Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Detra right now?
Holding steady — currently #554 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #554 | 1,646 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #559 | 1,626 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #564 | 1,596 | ▲ up 6881 · +14409% births |
| 1990 | #7445 | 11 | ▼ down 3896 · -54% births |
| 1985 | #3549 | 24 | ▼ down 1469 · -52% births |
| 1980 | #2080 | 50 | ▼ down 572 · -26% births |
| 1975 | #1508 | 68 | ▼ down 403 · -36% births |
| 1970 | #1105 | 107 | ▲ up 99 · +34% births |
| 1965 | #1204 | 80 | ▲ up 408 · +63% births |
| 1960 | #1612 | 49 | ▲ up 539 · +88% births |
| 1955 | #2151 | 26 | ▲ up 1063 · +117% births |
| 1950 | #3214 | 12 | ▲ up 1276 · +100% births |
| 1945 | #4490 | 6 | — |
The story of Detra
Detra entered American naming records in 1944 and has been in use for over 80 years. With 2,048 total births recorded, Detra remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4490 in 1945 to #554 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Detra in 1966:
Detra by decade
Detra peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 52 | |
| 1950s | 208 | |
| 1960s | 718 | |
| 1970s ★ | 735 | |
| 1980s | 273 | |
| 1990s | 62 | |
💎With 2,048 total births, Detra is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Detra?
What names sound and feel like Detra?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Detra also consider these
Common questions about the name Detra
What does the name Detra mean?
Detra means "belonging to the god of the sea" — 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 Detra?
Detra is currently ranked #554 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 Detra?
Detra 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 Detra?
Detra 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 Detra?
Studies on name perception suggest that Detra 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.