Meaning, origin, history
Norah is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Irish name Noreen, which means "honor" or "light." The name has been used for centuries in Ireland and has gained popularity worldwide over time.
The earliest recorded use of the name Norah can be traced back to the 17th century in Ireland. It was often used as a pet form of the name Honora, which also means "honor" but is of Latin origin. In some cases, Norah may have been derived from the Irish name Noraid, meaning "honor" or "light."
The name Norah gained significant popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century. According to data from the Social Security Administration, it ranked among the top 1,000 most popular girl names every year between 1948 and 1970. Today, Norah remains a popular choice for parents looking for a name with Irish roots and a timeless appeal.
Some notable individuals named Norah include:
* Norah Jones (born Geethali Norah Jones Shankar), an American singer-songwriter and pianist who won multiple Grammy Awards in the early 2000s.
* Norah Ephron, an American screenwriter, author, and director known for her films "When Harry Met Sally" and "Sleepless in Seattle."
* Norah O'Neill, a British artist whose work has been exhibited at various galleries and museums around the world.
In conclusion, Norah is a charming and historic name with Irish origins that means "honor" or "light." With its rich history and numerous notable namesakes, it's no wonder why many parents choose this beautiful name for their daughters.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Norah since 1880
Total births
31,276
Total since 1880
Peak year
2017
2,155 births
in 2023
1,479
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+7%
↗
vs previous 5 years