Tera is a unique and captivating female given name of Greek origin. Derived from the Greek word "tera," which means "earth" or "land," this name signifies connection to nature, stability, and fertility.
The use of Tera as a given name is relatively recent, with its popularity rising in the late 20th century. It is believed that the name was popularized by American writer Jack Vance's science fiction series "Tschai," where the planet Tschai is referred to as Tera. This association has contributed to the name's distinctive and futuristic appeal.
Despite its modern usage, the name Tera has historical roots in ancient Greek mythology. In some versions of the myth, Gaia, the personification of Earth, gives birth to Tera, the goddess of fertility and abundance. This connection lends the name a sense of timelessness and mystical significance.
Today, Tera is often chosen by parents seeking a strong, unique, and meaningful name for their daughters. It offers a blend of modern style with ancient roots, making it an appealing choice for those looking for something distinctive yet classic.
In terms of pronunciation, Tera is typically pronounced as /ˈtɪərə/ or /ˈtɛərə/, rhyming with "area" or "eh-rah." However, its pronunciation can vary depending on regional preferences and cultural influences.
The name "Tera" has seen a wide range of popularity over the years in the United States, with notable peaks and valleys. In the late 19th to early 20th century, it was quite uncommon, with fewer than 10 births per year between 1885 and 1943. However, starting from 1948, there was a significant increase in its popularity.
The name reached new heights in the 1960s and 1970s, with over 100 births per year every year from 1963 to 1982, peaking at 416 births in 1984. This period marked a significant increase in the popularity of the name "Tera".
However, after reaching its peak in the mid-1980s, the popularity of the name began to decline. Between 1985 and 2000, there were fewer than 100 births per year every year except for 1997.
In the 21st century, the popularity of the name "Tera" continued to decline. Between 2001 and 2023, there were fewer than 50 births per year every year except for 2021, which saw 18 births.
Overall, while the name "Tera" has had its ups and downs in popularity over the years in the United States, it remains a unique and memorable choice for parents looking for something different.