Nora
Meaning: Honor; light — echoing the grandeur of ancient Rome
Origin: Irish short form of Honora (from Latin honor), or a short form of Eleanor and Leonora
Gender: Girl
Rank in Ireland: #109
Total births: 4,253
History: The name Nora flourished among Ireland's strong women, from the legendary pirate queen Gráinne Mhaol to the modern leaders who transformed Irish society. It carries the spirit of women who refused to be confined by convention and blazed trails for those who followed. The name resonates in an Ireland that increasingly celebrates the courage and achievement of its daughters.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Ireland’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (2025) | #76 |
| Babies named Nora in 2025 | 65 |
| Total recorded in Ireland | 4,253 |
| Peak year | 1965 (310 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #22 |
| Years in records | 1964–2025 (62 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↑ 50 spots |
Frequently asked about Nora
What does the name Nora mean?
Nora means “Honor; light — echoing the grandeur of ancient Rome” from Irish short form of Honora (from Latin honor), or a short form of Eleanor and Leonora roots.
What is the origin of the name Nora?
Nora has Irish short form of Honora (from Latin honor), or a short form of Eleanor and Leonora origin. The traditional meaning is “Honor; light — echoing the grandeur of ancient Rome”.
How popular is Nora in Ireland?
Nora ranked #76 in Ireland in 2025 — given to 65 babies that year.
When was Nora most popular?
Nora peaked in 1965 with 310 babies registered that year in Ireland.
Is Nora a boy or girl name?
Nora is predominantly a girls' name in Ireland — over 90% of Noras in registered births are female.
Is the name Nora rising or falling in popularity?
Nora has risen 50 spots in the rankings over the last 5 years in Ireland — from #126 in 2020 to #76 in 2025.
How long has Nora been recorded in Ireland?
Nora appears in birth records in Ireland across 62 years — from 1964 through 2025.