Myra
Myra is a girl name of Latin origin meaning “Admirable, sweet-smelling”, pronounced MY-ruh. It ranked #663 in the United States in 2025, given to 429 babies, and peaked at #158 in 1880. Common nicknames: My.
How popular is Myra 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 Myra mean, and where does it come from?
Myra is generally believed to have been coined by 17th-century English poet Fulke Greville as a poetic anagram of "Maria," though some scholars connect it independently to "myrrh," the fragrant resin associated with the biblical Magi. The name was also historically the name of an ancient Greek city in Lycia, in modern-day Turkey, the seat of Saint Nicholas's bishopric, adding a further layer of Christian historical resonance. Myra enjoyed notable popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and has retained a steady, if modest, presence ever since, valued for its elegant simplicity and vintage charm.
How is Myra used around the world?
Myra is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 4+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Myra?
Famous People Named Myra
- Myra Hess — English pianist renowned for her wartime National Gallery concerts
- Myra Breckinridge — title character of Gore Vidal's satirical novel
Similar Names to Myra
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Sibling Name Ideas for Myra
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Myra mean?
Myra is a girl name of Latin origin meaning "Admirable, sweet-smelling." Myra is generally believed to have been coined by 17th-century English poet Fulke Greville as a poetic anagram of "Maria," though some scholars connect it independently to "myrrh," the fragrant resin associated with the biblical Magi. The name was also historically the name of an ancient Greek city in Lycia, in modern-day Turkey, the seat of Saint Nicholas's bishopric, adding a further layer of Christian historical resonance.
How do you pronounce Myra?
Myra is pronounced MY-ruh. Common variations include Mira, Myrah, Maira.
Is Myra a girl name?
Yes, Myra is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include My.