Debra is a feminine given name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "davar," which means "word." In the Bible, Debra was the name of the prophetess who helped judge Israel and guide her people.
The name Debra has been popular among Jewish families for centuries, but it gained widespread recognition in the United States during the mid-20th century. It was particularly common in the 1950s and 1960s, when it was often spelled Deborah with an "h."
Today, Debra is still a beloved name among many families, both Jewish and non-Jewish alike. It has a strong, confident sound that reflects its powerful biblical origins. Some famous people named Debra include actress Debra Messing, singer-songwriter Debbi Peterson, and former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice (born Debra). Despite its Hebrew origins, the name Debra is now considered to be of universal appeal and can be found in many cultures around the world.
The name Debra was quite popular between the years 1950 to 1969, with a peak of 87 births in 1954. After that period, its popularity significantly declined, with fewer than 35 births per year from 1970 onwards. The total number of babies named Debra over this period was 1146.