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Origin and meaning of the name Meira

What is the origin of the name Meira?

Meira is a Hebrew name and it is derived from the Hebrew word "me'orah," which means "lighthouse" or "beacon." In biblical contexts, it can also refer to a watchman. The name has been used primarily in Hebrew-speaking cultures, including Israel, but it has gained popularity in other parts of the world as well. It is sometimes spelled Mira or Miriam in different languages and cultures.

Learn more about the origin of the name Meira

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Meira

Meira is a feminine given name with Hebrew origins, derived from the word "me'orah," which means "luminous" or "shining." The name is often associated with Jewish heritage due to its origin. In Jewish culture, it is also connected to the Menorah, the seven-branched lampstand that plays a significant role in Jewish tradition and symbolism. As a personal name, Meira is popular in both Israel and other Hebrew-speaking communities as well as among non-Jewish populations worldwide due to its meaning of brightness or light. It's also an attractive choice for parents who appreciate names with roots in religious traditions while also carrying positive associations of radiance and illumination.

Character traits associated with the name Meira

Meira is often associated with individuals who exhibit strong leadership qualities and a persistent drive for success. They are known for their intelligence, ambition, and determination, always striving to achieve their goals. Meiras tend to be independent and assertive, with a natural ability to take charge in various situations. They are also highly creative problem-solvers, capable of thinking outside the box to find innovative solutions. On the personal side, Meiras are often compassionate and empathetic, showing genuine concern for others and their well-being. They value honesty and fairness, and strive to maintain strong ethical standards in all aspects of their lives. Despite their assertive nature, they are also known for their diplomatic skills, allowing them to navigate difficult social situations with grace and tact.

Popularity of the name Meira

Meira is a Hebrew name, derived from the word "mayir," meaning "one who belongs to God." The name has gained some popularity globally but varies significantly across different regions and cultures. In Israel, Meira is quite common due to its Hebrew origin, ranking among the top 200 names for girls born there in recent years. In other parts of the world, such as the United States or Europe, its usage is more limited, with it not being a particularly common name. Its popularity may be influenced by factors like cultural trends, personal preferences, and associations with notable figures bearing the name.

Famous people with the name Meira

Meira is a name associated with several distinguished individuals across various fields. In the realm of science, Meira Ettore-Grinberg is a renowned French-Israeli immunologist known for her research on leukemia and AIDS. In music, Meira Warshauer is an American composer and pianist who has written numerous works inspired by Jewish themes. In politics, Meira Kumar served as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian parliament, from 2009 to 2014. Lastly, Meira Leibman is a Canadian lawyer and politician, who was the first woman elected to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan in 1975. These women have made significant contributions to their respective fields, showcasing the versatility and impact that a name like Meira can hold.

Variations of the name Meira

Meira is a name of Hebrew origin, meaning "light" or "illuminated." It is primarily used as a female given name and has various spelling and pronunciation variations across different cultures and languages.

In English-speaking countries, it's commonly written as Meira (pronounced mee-rah). In Hebrew, the name may be spelled מאירה (Měyrah) or מירה (Meyrah), and pronounced mi-rah.

In Finnish, Meira is a surname that comes from the word for "mine," and as a given name, it might be written as Meiran (pronounced mei-ran). In Portuguese, it's spelled Maiera or Maira (pronounced mah-ee-rah), with the latter being more common.

In other languages like Swedish or Dutch, Meira is an uncommon name and might not be found often. However, similar variations such as Mayra, Meyera, Miriam, or Mirya can also be found in various cultures.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 29 July 2025

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