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.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Meara?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
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
Most popular combo · classic
Meara Rose
Floral · soft ending
Meara Mae
Sweet · timeless
Meara Claire
French influence · crisp
Meara Jane
Literary · strong
Meara Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Meara right now?
Falling — down 1627 spots — currently #5494 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| 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 | — |
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:
Meara by decade
| 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?
What names sound and feel like Meara?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Meara also consider these
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.