What does Kerra mean and where does it come from?
Kerra is derived from the Irish name 'Ciara,' meaning 'black' or 'dark.' It reflects the common trend of modernizing traditional Irish names while maintaining their ancestral ties. The name has seen use among Irish communities as well as in the broader context of English-speaking countries.
Cultural significance
Kerra has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Irish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of irish.
Peak popularity
Reached #2388 in 1975 — currently #14703 in the US.
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Related Reading
Irish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kerra?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kerra?
Kerra works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kerra Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kerra Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kerra Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kerra Claire
French influence · crisp
Kerra Jane
Literary · strong
Kerra Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kerra right now?
Falling — down 2103 spots — currently #14703 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2015 | #8535 | 13 | ▼ down 2103 · -35% births |
| 2010 | #6432 | 20 | ▼ down 2214 · -39% births |
| 2005 | #4218 | 33 | ▲ up 816 · +43% births |
| 2000 | #5034 | 23 | ▼ down 1007 · -12% births |
| 1995 | #4027 | 26 | ▼ down 267 · -7% births |
| 1990 | #3760 | 28 | ▼ down 1033 · -20% births |
| 1985 | #2727 | 35 | ▲ up 1710 · +106% births |
| 1980 | #4437 | 17 | ▼ down 2049 · -50% births |
| 1975 | #2388 | 34 | ▲ up 5131 · +467% births |
| 1970 | #7519 | 6 | — |
The story of Kerra
Kerra entered American naming records in 1956 and has been in use for over 68 years. With 1,149 total births recorded, Kerra remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #7519 in 1970, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #8535 in 2015.
Names that peaked alongside Kerra in 1975:
Kerra by decade
Kerra peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 6 | |
| 1960s | 21 | |
| 1970s | 137 | |
| 1980s | 238 | |
| 1990s ★ | 337 | |
| 2000s | 301 | |
| 2010s | 109 | |
💎With 1,149 total births, Kerra is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kerra?
Famous people named Kerra
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Kerra (Irish poet or writer)
Kerra used this name in the rich tradition of Irish literature and storytelling.
K(
Kerra (Irish saint)
Kerra helped spread this name across Ireland and Scotland through the early Christian monastic movement.
K(
Kerra (Celtic chieftain)
Kerra bore this name in ancient Ireland, where it connected to the Gaelic oral tradition.
K(
Kerra (Irish saint)
Kerra helped spread this name across Ireland and Scotland through the early Christian monastic movement.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Kerra?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kerra also consider these
Common questions about the name Kerra
What does the name Kerra mean?
Kerra means "Irish" — a name rooted in Irish 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 Kerra?
Kerra 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 Kerra?
Kerra originates from Irish tradition. Irish 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 Kerra?
Kerra is a two-syllable name pronounced K ER1 R AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kerra a common or rare name?
Kerra is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.