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Origin and meaning of the name Myra

What is the origin of the name Myra?

The origin of the name Myra can be traced back to various sources. 1. Greek Origin: Myra is derived from the Greek word "myrra," which means "myrrh." Myrrh is a fragrant resin that has been used in religious rituals and perfumes. 2. Ancient Roman Origin: Myra can also be associated with ancient Roman culture. There was a city in ancient Lycia (now modern-day Turkey) called Myra, which was known for its historical significance and early Christian presence. 3. English Origin: In English, Myra is sometimes considered a variant or diminutive of the name Miranda, which has Latin and Shakespearean origins. It gained popularity as an independent given name in the English-speaking world during the 19th century. Overall, the name Myra has diverse origins, reflecting Greek, Roman, and English influences throughout history.

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The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Myra

The name Myra is of Greek origin and it means "sweet smelling" or "fragrant." It is derived from the Greek word "myrrh," which is a fragrant resin obtained from a tree. Myrrh was often used in ancient times for its pleasant aroma and as an ingredient in perfumes and incense. As a given name, Myra gained popularity in the late 19th century due to its exotic and elegant sound. In addition to its Greek roots, Myra has connections to other cultures and languages. It is a variation of the name Mira, which has origins in Latin, Slavic, and Arabic languages. In Latin, Mira can mean "wonderful" or "admirable," while in Slavic and Arabic, it can mean "peace" or "prosperous." This multifaceted background of the name adds depth and richness to its meaning. Today, Myra is often chosen as a feminine name for its combination of grace, beauty, and its connection to aromatic beloved substances.

Character traits associated with the name Myra

Myra is a name associated with a variety of character traits. First and foremost, individuals named Myra are often considered intelligent and analytical. They possess a natural curiosity and love of learning, constantly seeking knowledge and expanding their understanding of the world. Myras tend to be genuine and honest, always speaking their mind and never hiding their true feelings. Despite their straightforward nature, they are also known for their kindness and compassion towards others, always willing to lend a helping hand. Myras are often incredibly creative, possessing a unique and imaginative perspective that allows them to excel in artistic endeavors. They are also known for their determination and perseverance, never giving up even when faced with challenges. Overall, individuals with the name Myra embody a combination of intelligence, honesty, creativity, and compassion, making them wonderful and truly special individuals.

Popularity of the name Myra

The name Myra has had varying levels of popularity throughout history. In the early 20th century, Myra was a relatively common name, ranking in the top 200 names for girls in the United States. However, its popularity declined steadily over the decades, reaching its lowest point in the 1970s and 1980s when it fell out of the top 1000 names. However, in recent years, the name Myra has seen a resurgence in popularity. It is often associated with qualities like elegance, strength, and femininity. The name appeals to parents who are seeking a unique yet timeless name for their daughters. Myra is also occasionally used as a variation of the more popular names like Miranda or Mariah. Overall, the name Myra has experienced a journey of popularity, rising and falling throughout the years but managing to capture the hearts of many parents in recent times.

Famous people with the name Myra

Myra is a beautiful and unique name that has been embodied by several famous individuals. One of the notable personalities is Myra Hindley, an infamous figure from England's history. Hindley, along with her partner Ian Brady, notoriously committed a series of child murders known as the Moors Murders in the 1960s. Her crimes shocked the nation and brought attention to issues of child protection and psychological manipulation. In contrast, we have Myra Hess, a celebrated English pianist known for her incredible talent and contributions during World War II. Hess gained recognition for her inspiring concerts at the National Gallery in London, providing solace and hope to those enduring the hardships of war. These two individuals, with their vastly different stories, both demonstrate the impact individuals named Myra can have on society, leaving an indelible mark on history.

Variations of the name Myra

Myra is a beautiful, elegant name with various variations that add a touch of uniqueness and intrigue. One variation is Myrah, which maintains the original charm while adding a subtle twist. Another variation is Mira, a shorter and more streamlined version of the name that exudes a modern and sophisticated vibe. Myra also has a Scandinavian variation, Mýra, which incorporates the unique accent on the "y" to give it a distinctive Scandinavian flair. Additionally, the name can be spelled as Mayra, which adds a soft and delicate touch to the pronunciation. Furthermore, there is the variation Mayrah, which gives the name a slightly edgier feel. These variations of Myra allow individuals to choose the version that resonates most with their unique personality and cultural background, adding a personal touch to an already captivating name.

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 : 11 April 2025

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