Nora
Female nameIrish
✨ Meaning
Nora is an anglicized short form of the Irish name Honora, derived from the Latin 'honor,' meaning honor or dignity, which Norman settlers carried into Ireland in the medieval period. It also serves as a short form of Eleanor and of the Scandinavian Nora, so a single name arrives from three directions at once. It conveys integrity, grace, and a quiet strength.
🌍 Origin
Nora has been a beloved name in Ireland for centuries, often used as a pet form of Honora. It gained international recognition through Henrik Ibsen's 1879 play 'A Doll's House,' in which Nora Helmer is a pioneering figure of female independence, giving the name literary and feminist resonance.
📈 Popularity Trend
⭐ Famous People Named Nora
- Nora Ephron
- Norah Jones
- Nora Roberts
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What does Nora mean?
Nora means 'honor' or 'dignity' from the Latin via Irish Honora, or alternatively 'light' from Norse roots. Both meanings speak to nobility and grace.
Is Nora a popular name?
Nora has steadily climbed into the top 30 US girl names and is extremely popular in Ireland and Scandinavia.
What are similar names to Nora?
Similar names include Cora, Dora, Clara, Flora, and Eleanor — all classic, elegant names with a vintage feel.