What does Dora mean and where does it come from?
Dora is originally derived from the Greek name Dorothea, which combines 'doron' meaning gift, and 'theos' meaning God. The name has seen various revivals throughout history and has different variations across languages and cultures. Notable people include Dora the Explorer, a popular fictional chara
Cultural significance
Dora has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of gift.
Peak popularity
Reached #46 in 1881 — currently #2388 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Dora?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Dora?
Dora works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Dora Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Dora Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Dora Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Dora Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Dora Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Dora Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Dora right now?
Rising fast — up 201 spots — currently #2388 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #2388 | 75 | ▲ up 201 · +10% births |
| 2024 | #2589 | 68 | ▼ down 1592 · -94% births |
| 2023 | #997 | 1,203 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1002 | 1,183 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1007 | 1,153 | ▲ up 1368 · +1479% births |
| 2020 | #2375 | 73 | ▼ down 403 · -28% births |
| 2015 | #1972 | 101 | ▲ up 387 · +26% births |
| 2010 | #2359 | 80 | ▼ down 968 · -48% births |
| 2005 | #1391 | 154 | ▲ up 54 · +21% births |
| 2000 | #1445 | 127 | ▼ down 372 · -23% births |
| 1995 | #1073 | 166 | ▼ down 102 · -14% births |
| 1990 | #971 | 192 | ▼ down 226 · -17% births |
| 1985 | #745 | 232 | ▼ down 136 · -23% births |
| 1980 | #609 | 301 | ▼ down 144 · -26% births |
| 1975 | #465 | 406 | — |
The story of Dora
Dora has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #46 in 1881. More than 106,077 babies have been named Dora since 1880. Once ranked #51 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #997 in 2023. Dora is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Dora in 1881:
Dora by decade
Dora peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 7,341 | |
| 1890s | 8,730 | |
| 1900s | 8,046 | |
| 1910s | 14,082 | |
| 1920s ★ | 18,439 | |
| 1930s | 12,481 | |
| 1940s | 9,765 | |
| 1950s | 9,325 | |
| 1960s | 7,451 | |
| 1970s | 3,955 | |
| 1980s | 2,383 | |
| 1990s | 1,728 | |
| 2000s | 1,368 | |
| 2010s | 910 | |
| 2020s | 216 | |
What are good nicknames for Dora?
Famous people named Dora
D(
Dora (ancient philosopher)
Dora bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
D(
Dora (Greek mythological figure)
Dora carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
D(
Dora (Byzantine leader)
Dora used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
D(
Dora (Greek poet or artist)
Dora helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2025
Explore →What names sound and feel like Dora?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dora also consider these
How is Dora written in other languages?
Ντορα
Greek), Дора (Serbian
What are the boy versions of Dora?
Common questions about the name Dora
What does the name Dora mean?
Dora means "Gift" — a name rooted in Greek 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 Dora?
Dora is currently ranked #997 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Dora?
Dora originates from Greek tradition. Greek 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 Dora?
Dora is a two-syllable name pronounced DAW-ruh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Dora a common or rare name?
Dora is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.