What does Kadra mean and where does it come from?
The name Kadra has Arabic origins and is derived from the root 'qadar,' which signifies capability and ability. It is often used in various Arabic-speaking countries and regions of Africa. The name is sometimes associated with strength and competence.
Cultural significance
Kadra has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in African-speaking communities, where it reflects values of meaning 'capable' or 'able'.
Peak popularity
Reached #7548 in 1963 — currently #1752 in the US.
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Related Reading
African-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kadra?
Kadra works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kadra Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kadra Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kadra Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kadra Claire
French influence · crisp
Kadra Jane
Literary · strong
Kadra Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kadra right now?
Holding steady — currently #1752 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1752 | 448 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2022 | #1757 | 428 | ▲ up 5 · +8% births |
| 2021 | #1762 | 398 | ▲ up 9085 · +5586% births |
| 1995 | #10847 | 7 | ▼ down 2347 · +17% births |
| 1975 | #8500 | 6 | — |
The story of Kadra
Kadra is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1963. With 82 total births recorded, Kadra remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8500 in 1975 to #1752 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Kadra in 1963:
Kadra by decade
Kadra peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 5 | |
| 1970s | 13 | |
| 1980s | 12 | |
| 1990s ★ | 29 | |
| 2000s | 23 | |
💎Kadra has only 82 total recorded births since 1963 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Kadra?
Famous people named Kadra
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Kadra (Pan-African activist)
Kadra used this name in the movement for African cultural pride and independence.
K(
Kadra (East African historical figure)
Kadra carried this name in the rich cultural heritage of East African civilization.
K(
Kadra (African poet or griot)
Kadra passed this name through the oral tradition of African storytelling and music.
K(
Kadra (Pan-African activist)
Kadra used this name in the movement for African cultural pride and independence.
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Celebrity Names
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Explore →What names sound and feel like Kadra?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kadra also consider these
Common questions about the name Kadra
What does the name Kadra mean?
Kadra means "Meaning 'capable' or 'able'" — a name rooted in African 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 Kadra?
Kadra 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 Kadra?
Kadra originates from African tradition. African names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Kadra a common or rare name?
Kadra is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Kadra?
Kadra 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.