Nora
Nora is a girl name of Irish origin meaning “Honor, light”, pronounced NOR-uh. It ranked #20 in the United States in 2025, given to 6,380 babies, and peaked at #20 in 2025. Common nicknames: Nori, Nor.
How popular is Nora 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 Nora mean, and where does it come from?
Nora is an Irish short form of Honora or Eleanor, ultimately deriving from the Latin "honor" meaning "honour" or "esteem." In Ireland, it has been used as an independent name for centuries and was one of the most common female names in 19th-century Ireland. The name gained literary fame through Henrik Ibsen's play A Doll's House, where the protagonist Nora Helmer became a symbol of women's independence. Nora has seen a strong resurgence in the 21st century, prized for its simplicity, warmth, and timeless elegance.
How is Nora used around the world?
Nora is used in 5 languages worldwide, with 1+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Nora?
Famous People Named Nora
- Nora Ephron — American filmmaker and screenwriter of When Harry Met Sally
- Nora Jones — American singer-songwriter and pianist
- Nora Roberts — bestselling American romance novelist
Similar Names to Nora
If you like Nora, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Nora
Looking for names that pair well with Nora? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Nora mean?
Nora is a girl name of Irish origin meaning "Honor, light." Nora is an Irish short form of Honora or Eleanor, ultimately deriving from the Latin "honor" meaning "honour" or "esteem." In Ireland, it has been used as an independent name for centuries and was one of the most common female names in 19th-century Ireland.
How do you pronounce Nora?
Nora is pronounced NOR-uh. Common variations include Norah, Noora, Nóra.
Is Nora a girl name?
Yes, Nora is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Nori, Nor.