What does Elmira mean and where does it come from?
The name Elmira has Persian origins, meaning 'princess'. It gained some popularity in the Western world through its association with literature, appearing in works like Shakespeare's 'Othello' as an alternative form. The name has also been adopted in various cultures, including Arabic-speaking count
Cultural significance
Elmira has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Persia (Iran)-speaking communities, where it reflects values of princess.
Peak popularity
Reached #394 in 1887 — currently #9798 in the US.
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Related Reading
Persia (Iran)-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Falling — down 1631 spots — currently #9798 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#9798 · Top 7.2%
1930
1935
1940
1945
1950
1955
1960
1965
1970
1990
2010
2015
2020
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#9798
10
▼ down 1631 · -23% births
2022
#8167
13
▲ up 2814 · +63% births
2020
#10981
8
▼ down 2989 · -43% births
2015
#7992
14
▲ up 4280 · +75% births
2010
#12272
8
▼ down 3022
1990
#9250
8
▼ down 4487 · -27% births
1970
#4763
11
▼ down 813
1965
#3950
11
▼ down 1887 · -65% births
1960
#2063
31
▼ down 42 · +11% births
1955
#2021
28
▼ down 395 · -15% births
1950
#1626
33
▼ down 290 · -8% births
1945
#1336
36
▼ down 310 · -27% births
1940
#1026
49
▼ down 79 · -9% births
1935
#947
54
▼ down 66 · -19% births
1930
#881
67
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Elmira
1905Rank #547
102
#3858
↘Falling
1900 - 202321 years
The story of Elmira
Elmira has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 4,312 total births recorded, Elmira remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #477 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #9798 in 2023.
Elmira means "princess" — a name rooted in Persia (Iran) 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 Elmira?
Elmira is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Elmira have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Elmira?
Elmira originates from Persia (Iran) tradition. Persia (Iran) 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 Elmira?
Elmira is a three-syllable name pronounced EH0 L M AY1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Elmira?
Elmira pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Persia (Iran) heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Elmira
For a sister
Elmira & Surena♡
Elmira & Jazmin♡
Elmira & Cina♡
Elmira & Paria♡
For a brother
Elmira & Jazmin♡
Elmira & Kashan♡
Elmira & Ziba♡
Elmira & Hooman♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#9798
🇬🇧 UK
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🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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