Norah
Norah is a girl name of Irish origin meaning “Honor, light”, pronounced NOR-uh. It ranked #262 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,191 babies, and peaked at #137 in 2017. Common nicknames: Nori, Nor.
How popular is Norah 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 Norah mean, and where does it come from?
Norah is a variant spelling of Nora, itself a short form of Honora or Eleanor, both connected to the Latin "honor" meaning "esteem" or "honour." The "h" spelling has long coexisted with Nora in Ireland and Britain and gained particular visibility through singer-songwriter Norah Jones. The name shares Nora's timeless, gentle appeal while offering a slightly softer visual spelling. Norah has climbed steadily in American popularity in the 21st century as parents favor short, classic names with vintage charm.
How is Norah used around the world?
Norah is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 3+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Norah?
Famous People Named Norah
- Norah Jones — American singer-songwriter and pianist
- Norah O'Donnell — American journalist and CBS Evening News anchor
- Norah Lofts — English historical novelist
Similar Names to Norah
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Sibling Name Ideas for Norah
Looking for names that pair well with Norah? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Norah mean?
Norah is a girl name of Irish origin meaning "Honor, light." Norah is a variant spelling of Nora, itself a short form of Honora or Eleanor, both connected to the Latin "honor" meaning "esteem" or "honour." The "h" spelling has long coexisted with Nora in Ireland and Britain and gained particular visibility through singer-songwriter Norah Jones.
How do you pronounce Norah?
Norah is pronounced NOR-uh. Common variations include Nora, Noora, Nóra.
Is Norah a girl name?
Yes, Norah is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Nori, Nor.