Are you considering naming your child Kira or just curious about the name’s meaning and origin? Look no further, as we delve into the history and significance of the name Kira, along with famous people who share the name.
What is the meaning of the name Kira?
The name Kira has several meanings, depending on its origin.
- In Russian, Kira means “ruler” or “leader.”
- In Sanskrit, Kira means “beam of light.”
- In Japanese, Kira can mean “sparkle,” “shine,” or “glitter.”
What is the origin of the name Kira?
Kira has multiple origins and is used in various cultures and languages. Here are some possible origins of the name:
- Russia: Kira is a popular name in Russia, which is where it first gained popularity. It originated from the Greek name Kyra, which means “lady” or “mistress.”
- Japan: In Japan, Kira is a unisex name, although it’s more commonly given to girls. It’s often written using the kanji character for “sparkle” or “shine.”
- India: The Sanskrit meaning of Kira (“beam of light”) gives it a spiritual connotation, and it’s often associated with Hindu mythology.
Famous people named Kira
Several notable individuals throughout history have borne the name Kira, including:
- Kira Ivanova, a fictional character in the Japanese anime series “Death Note”
- Kira Kazantsev, Miss America 2015
- Kira Salak, American writer and adventurer
- Kira Muratova, Ukrainian filmmaker
- Kira Plastinina, Russian fashion designer
Popularity of the name Kira
Kira is a relatively popular name, ranking in the top 1000 baby names for girls in the United States since the mid-1980s. It reached its peak popularity in 1998 when it ranked as the 281st most popular name for girls in the US.
How to choose a middle name for Kira
Choosing a middle name can be a challenging task, but here are some ideas that can help:
- Classic names like Elizabeth, Marie, or Catherine make great middle names for Kira.
- Consider pairing Kira with another name of Japanese origin, such as Sakura or Yumi.
- Use a family name as a middle name to honor a loved one.
How to pronounce the name Kira
The pronunciation of Kira varies depending on its origin. In Russian, it’s pronounced “KEE-ruh,” while in Japan, it’s pronounced “KEE-rah.”
Is the name Kira gender-neutral?
While Kira is traditionally a feminine name in some cultures, it can also be used as a unisex name. In Japan, for example, Kira is a unisex name.
What are some alternative spellings of the name Kira?
Kira has several alternative spellings, including:
- Kyra
- Keira
- Kiera
- Kirra
- Kiara
Conclusion
Kira is a beautiful and unique name with multiple meanings and origins. Whether you’re looking for a Russian, Japanese, or Sanskrit name, Kira could be the perfect fit for your child. Its spiritual connotations, along with its association with famous people, make it an excellent choice for those seeking a meaningful name.
FAQs
- What does the name Kira mean in Japanese?
In Japanese, Kira can mean “sparkle,” “shine,” or “glitter.”
- Is Kira a popular name?
Yes, Kira is a relatively popular name, ranking in the top 1000 baby names for girls in the United States since the mid-1980s.
- What are some famous people named Kira?
Famous people named Kira include Miss America 2015 Kira Kazantsev, Ukrainian filmmaker Kira Muratova, and Russian fashion designer Kira Plastinina.
- Can Kira be used as a middle name?
Yes, Kira can be used as a middle name, especially when paired with classic or Japanese-inspired names.
- How do you pronounce Kira?
The pronunciation of Kira varies depending on its origin. In Russian, it’s pronounced “KEE-ruh,” while in Japan, it’s pronounced “KEE-rah.”
We’re Emma Carole Paradis and Kimberly Carole, the owners and designers of Impeccable Nest, based in Bedford, New Hampshire. A mother-daughter team with a love of design. Originally from Manhattan Beach, California, now based in Bedford, New Hampshire, we bring a Southern California cool and New England tradition to our design. Not only do we work together…we also live together in a multi-generational home…and a home that they are known to design for others.