1. Ira name meaning and origin

The name Ira has diverse origins across multiple linguistic and cultural traditions. In Hebrew, Ira (עִירָא) means 'watchful' or 'vigilant,' and appears in the Bible as the name of one of King David's chief officers, referred to as one of 'David's mighty men' (2 Samuel 23:38). This Hebrew origin connects the name to qualities of alertness and protection, reflecting values important in ancient Semitic cultures.

In Sanskrit traditions, Ira (ईरा) carries entirely different meanings, representing 'earth' or 'the sustaining goddess,' associated with abundance and nourishment. Meanwhile, in Irish and Gaelic contexts, the name may be linked to 'anger' or 'wrath,' derived from terms describing intense emotion. This remarkable diversity illustrates how seemingly simple names can embody rich etymological histories spanning continents and civilizations. The name gained particular popularity in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, though its usage has fluctuated considerably over time.

2. Ira name popularity

The name Ira has the interesting distinction of being used for both males and females in the United States and the United Kingdom. Originally derived from Hebrew, where it means "watchful" or "vigilant," Ira has maintained its presence in both cultures as a gender-neutral option, though historically it has been more commonly used for males in the US.

While specific ranking data isn't available, Ira has experienced fluctuations in popularity over the decades. In the United States, it saw greater usage in the early-to-mid 20th century, often associated with notable figures like composer Ira Gershwin and journalist Ira Glass. The name maintains a classic quality while remaining distinctive in contemporary naming trends.

3. Variations and nicknames of Ira

The name Ira has ancient roots and appears across multiple cultures with varying pronunciations and spellings. In Hebrew origins, Ira (pronounced EE-rah) means 'watchful' or 'vigilant,' while the Russian variant Ира (also pronounced EE-rah) is typically a feminine diminutive of Irina. The Irish variant Íre connects to the Gaelic word for 'anger' or 'wrath,' giving it a more passionate connotation. Other international variations include the Italian Iro, the Latin Irus, and the feminine form Irita found in some Baltic languages. In Finnish culture, Iiro represents a localized adaptation, while the Germanic version Iro appears in historical texts. The Japanese feminine variant Aira shares phonetic similarities but has distinct cultural origins and meaning.

When it comes to nicknames and familiar forms, Ira offers surprising versatility despite its brevity. The affectionate diminutives Iri and Irey are common among family members, while Ray or Rae serves as a playful abbreviation focusing on the second syllable. Some bearers of this name adopt the nickname Ri or Riri for a more contemporary sound. For those named Ira with Hebrew connections, the endearing term Irush or Irushka follows Eastern European diminutive patterns. In American contexts, particularly in the South, the double-name approach yields combinations like Ira-Mae or Ira-Beth for women and Ira-Lee or Ira-James for men. The spelling variant Irah occasionally appears as both a formal variant and nickname, while the pronunciation-based nickname Eye provides an unusual single-syllable option derived from the American English pronunciation of the name.

4. Best name combinations with Ira

5. Numerology of Ira name

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

6. Ira name in pop culture

7. Famous people named Ira