“lyre, a stringed musical instrument” — Associated with Orpheus
Greece origin · Girl name
♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls
#482US 2023
638Births / yr
↑Rising
4.8kAll-time births
📅 Since 189300.03% of births at peak
How to pronounce Lyra
LEYE·ruh
/ˈlaɪ.rə/ · stress on LEYE · 2 syllables
“lyre, a stringed musical instrument”
Associated with Orpheus · Greece origin
What does Lyra mean and where does it come from?
The name Lyra originates from the Greek word 'lyra', referring to a type of stringed musical instrument. In Greek mythology, Lyra is associated with Orpheus, a legendary musician. It also refers to a constellation named after the instrument. The name gained popularity in English-speaking countries i
Cultural significance
Lyra has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of lyre, a stringed musical instrument.
Rising — up 14 spots — currently #482 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2023#482 · Top 0.36%
1960
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#482
638
▲ up 14
2022
#496
637
▼ down 7 · -1% births
2021
#489
643
▲ up 62 · +20% births
2020
#551
534
▲ up 426 · +93% births
2015
#977
276
▲ up 149 · +27% births
2010
#1126
218
▲ up 2000 · +336% births
2005
#3126
50
▲ up 2589 · +163% births
2000
#5715
19
▲ up 2410 · +90% births
1995
#8125
10
▲ up 2136 · +43% births
1990
#10261
7
▼ down 3265 · -22% births
1985
#6996
9
▼ down 3127 · -55% births
1980
#3869
20
▲ up 1023 · +67% births
1975
#4892
12
▲ up 983 · +50% births
1970
#5875
8
▼ down 1030
1960
#4845
8
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Lyra
2023Rank #482
643
#3866
↗Rising
1915 - 202317 years
The story of Lyra
Lyra has been a beloved American name for over 131 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1893. With 4,810 total births recorded, Lyra remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3226 in 1915 to #482 in 2023.
Lyra means "lyre, a stringed musical instrument" — 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 Lyra?
Lyra is currently ranked #482 in the United States as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Lyra have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Lyra?
Lyra 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 Lyra?
Lyra is a two-syllable name pronounced L AY1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lyra trending right now?
Lyra is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Lyra
For a sister
Lyra & Sophia♡
Lyra & Sofia♡
Lyra & Chloe♡
Lyra & Athena♡
For a brother
Lyra & Theodore♡
Lyra & Alexander♡
Lyra & Elias♡
Lyra & Khloe♡
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