What does Kyra mean and where does it come from?
Kyra is of Greek origin, derived from the term 'kyrios' meaning 'lord' or 'master.' In Persian, it's believed to derive from 'Kūrush' or 'Cyrus,' suggesting lineage from royalty. The name has become popular across various cultures and languages, often used in modern contexts for its elegant sound.
Cultural significance
Kyra has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of lady.
Peak popularity
Reached #179 in 2005 — currently #830 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kyra?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kyra?
Kyra works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kyra Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Kyra Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Kyra Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Kyra Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Kyra Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Kyra Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Kyra right now?
Falling — down 108 spots — currently #830 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #830 | 329 | ▼ down 108 · -16% births |
| 2024 | #722 | 391 | ▼ down 24 · -5% births |
| 2023 | #698 | 413 | ▼ down 39 · -8% births |
| 2022 | #659 | 449 | ▲ up 6 |
| 2021 | #665 | 447 | ▲ up 13 · +8% births |
| 2020 | #678 | 414 | ▼ down 188 · -37% births |
| 2015 | #490 | 654 | ▼ down 143 · -29% births |
| 2010 | #347 | 927 | ▼ down 168 · -52% births |
| 2005 | #179 | 1,912 | ▲ up 22 · +20% births |
| 2000 | #201 | 1,597 | ▲ up 192 · +137% births |
| 1995 | #393 | 675 | ▲ up 177 · +66% births |
| 1990 | #570 | 407 | ▲ up 344 · +135% births |
| 1985 | #914 | 173 | ▲ up 230 · +45% births |
| 1980 | #1144 | 119 | ▼ down 100 · +4% births |
| 1975 | #1044 | 114 | — |
The story of Kyra
Kyra entered American naming records in 1919 and has been in use for over 105 years. A total of 36,243 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3425 in 1940 to #698 in 2023. Kyra is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kyra in 2005:
Kyra by decade
Kyra peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1930s | 17 | |
| 1940s | 92 | |
| 1950s | 251 | |
| 1960s | 714 | |
| 1970s | 1,238 | |
| 1980s | 2,254 | |
| 1990s | 8,951 | |
| 2000s ★ | 15,643 | |
| 2010s | 6,664 | |
| 2020s | 1,134 | |
What are good nicknames for Kyra?
What names sound and feel like Kyra?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kyra also consider these
How is Kyra written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Kyra?
Common questions about the name Kyra
What does the name Kyra mean?
Kyra means "lady" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Kyra?
Kyra is currently ranked #698 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Kyra?
Kyra originates from Greece tradition. Greece 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 Kyra?
Kyra is a two-syllable name pronounced KEYE-ruh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kyra more of a girl or boy name?
Kyra is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.