What does Ira mean and where does it come from?
The name Ira is born from Hebrew origins, spelled in Hebrew as 'עִירָא'. It translates to 'watchful' or 'alert'. Although it's considered unisex, Ira is predominantly recognized as a male name in ancient Hebrew texts, while it also finds occasional use as a female name. It has a literary presence, r
Cultural significance
Ira has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of watchful; alert.
Peak popularity
Reached #426 in 1880 — currently #878 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Ira?
Ira works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ira Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Ira Rose
Floral · soft ending
Ira Claire
French influence · crisp
Ira Jane
Literary · strong
Ira Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Ira right now?
Declining — down 33 spots — currently #878 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #878 | 266 | ▼ down 33 · -8% births |
| 2022 | #845 | 288 | ▼ down 36 · -4% births |
| 2021 | #809 | 301 | ▲ up 611 · +98% births |
| 2020 | #1420 | 152 | ▲ up 601 · +57% births |
| 2015 | #2021 | 97 | ▲ up 1940 · +155% births |
| 2010 | #3961 | 38 | ▲ up 5485 · +245% births |
| 2005 | #9446 | 11 | ▼ down 668 · +22% births |
| 1995 | #8778 | 9 | ▼ down 2641 · -36% births |
| 1990 | #6137 | 14 | ▲ up 816 · +56% births |
| 1985 | #6953 | 9 | ▼ down 2435 · -44% births |
| 1980 | #4518 | 16 | ▼ down 565 |
| 1975 | #3953 | 16 | ▼ down 844 · -24% births |
| 1970 | #3109 | 21 | ▼ down 697 · -16% births |
| 1965 | #2412 | 25 | ▼ down 428 · -24% births |
| 1960 | #1984 | 33 | — |
The story of Ira
Ira has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 60,224 babies have received this name. Once ranked #426 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #878 in 2023. Ira is used for both genders: 10% female and 90% male.
Names that peaked alongside Ira in 1880:
Ira by decade
Ira peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 2,551 | |
| 1890s | 2,171 | |
| 1900s | 2,073 | |
| 1910s | 6,767 | |
| 1920s ★ | 8,811 | |
| 1930s | 6,494 | |
| 1940s | 7,812 | |
| 1950s | 7,577 | |
| 1960s | 4,729 | |
| 1970s | 3,299 | |
| 1980s | 2,247 | |
| 1990s | 1,280 | |
| 2000s | 1,197 | |
| 2010s | 2,779 | |
| 2020s | 437 | |
What are good nicknames for Ira?
Famous people named Ira
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Ira (historical figure)
Ira bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Ira?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ira also consider these
Common questions about the name Ira
What does the name Ira mean?
Ira means "watchful; alert" — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Ira?
Ira is currently ranked #878 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 Ira?
Ira originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew 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 Ira?
Ira is a two-syllable name pronounced AY1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Ira a common or rare name?
Ira is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.