Cora
Cora is a girl name of Greek origin meaning “Maiden”, pronounced KOR-uh. It ranked #113 in the United States in 2025, given to 2,428 babies, and peaked at #15 in 1880. Common nicknames: Cori, CoCo.
How popular is Cora in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Cora mean, and where does it come from?
Cora derives from the Greek "kore" meaning "maiden" or "girl," and was an epithet for Persephone, the goddess of the underworld and spring in Greek mythology. The name was popularized in the English-speaking world by James Fenimore Cooper, who used it for the character Cora Munro in his 1826 novel The Last of the Mohicans. Lady Cora Crawley, a central character in the television series Downton Abbey, gave the name a significant modern boost. Cora appeals to parents who love short, vintage names with mythological depth and has been climbing baby name charts steadily since the 2010s.
How is Cora used around the world?
Cora is used in 1 languages worldwide.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Cora?
Famous People Named Cora
- Cora Coralina — Brazilian poet
- Cora Crawley — fictional character from Downton Abbey
- Cora Gauthier — French model and fashion figure
Similar Names to Cora
If you like Cora, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Cora
Looking for names that pair well with Cora? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Cora mean?
Cora is a girl name of Greek origin meaning "Maiden." Cora derives from the Greek "kore" meaning "maiden" or "girl," and was an epithet for Persephone, the goddess of the underworld and spring in Greek mythology. The name was popularized in the English-speaking world by James Fenimore Cooper, who used it for the character Cora Munro in his 1826 novel The Last of the Mohicans.
How do you pronounce Cora?
Cora is pronounced KOR-uh. Common variations include Kora, Coralie, Corina.
Is Cora a girl name?
Yes, Cora is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Cori, CoCo.