Meara

“sea, ocean”

Ireland origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#5494US 2023

23Births / yr

↓Falling

1.3kAll-time births

📅 Since 197300

How to pronounce Meara

MEE·ruh

/ˈmiː.rə/ · stress on MEE · 2 syllables

“sea, ocean”

Ireland origin · Girl name

What does Meara mean and where does it come from?

Meara is an Irish name derived from the Gaelic word for the sea. It is somewhat uncommon but has seen usage in both Ireland and the United States. The name signifies a connection with the sea and nature, embodying the essence of adventure and depth. It has feminine and ethereal qualities, suitable f

Cultural significance

Meara has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of sea, ocean.

Peak popularity

Reached #2508 in 2015 — currently #5494 in the US.

🌿

How else can you spell Meara?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

Miera

Spelling variant

What middle names flow best with Meara?

Meara works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Meara Grace

How popular is Meara right now?

Falling — down 1627 spots — currently #5494 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1980–2023#5494 · Top 4.1%

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#5494	23	▼ down 1627 · -41% births
2022	#3867	39	▲ up 345 · +15% births
2021	#4212	34	▼ down 297 · -6% births
2020	#3915	36	▼ down 1407 · -50% births
2015	#2508	72	▲ up 2660 · +167% births
2010	#5168	27	▼ down 2022 · -46% births
2005	#3146	50	▲ up 562 · +43% births
2000	#3708	35	▲ up 2755 · +150% births
1995	#6463	14	▲ up 1167 · +27% births
1990	#7630	11	▼ down 2828 · -31% births
1985	#4802	16	▲ up 3148 · +100% births
1980	#7950	8	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Meara

Best Year2015Rank #2508

Peak Count72

Average Rank#4905

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1980 - 202312 years

The story of Meara

Meara is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1973. With 1,253 total births recorded, Meara remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7950 in 1980 to #5494 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Meara in 2015:

Emma Olivia Sophia Ava Isabella

Meara by decade

Meara peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1970s	18
1980s	110
1990s	173
2000s	376
2010s ★	540
2020s	36

💎With 1,253 total births, Meara is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Meara?

Common

MeaMearMearieMeary

What names sound and feel like Meara?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Meara also consider these

Meada

Ireland · Irish

Ceara

Ireland · dark, black

Seara

Ireland · dark, black

Keara

Irish · Little dark one

Common questions about the name Meara

What does the name Meara mean?

Meara means "sea, ocean" — a name rooted in Ireland 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 Meara?

Meara is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl 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 Meara?

Meara originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland 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 Meara?

Meara is a two-syllable name pronounced M IY1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Meara a common or rare name?

Meara is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.