Name: Kira
Meaning: “little dark one”
Origin: Gaelic
Current Popularity: #378
Nickname Potential: Kir (KEER), KiKi
Associations: Actresses Keira Knightley and Kyra Sedgewick have kept the name in our ears in this era. Even Star Wars has gotten into it, with Solo character Qi’ra giving us an entirely new spelling for this name. And Jim Henson’s original Dark Crystal movie featured a character named Kira. There are two princesses of the past who share the name, too: Princess Kira of Prussia and Princess Kira Kirillovna of Russia.
Similar Names: Chiara, Cybele, Elena, Kate, Lara, Alina, Cassandra, Mira, Neve, Mina
Why We Love It: Kira has a timeless feel to it, as though it could belong to any era. While it is slowly declining in popularity in the US, it’s unlikely to ever feel past its prime, since it’s never been too popular. There’s an air of regality to it as well, without it being as obviously “royal” as Elizabeth, Catherine, or Victoria. With its hard K- sound leading into a softer -a ending, it is commanding with its start yet genteel in its finish. And while most people may think of Keira Knightley when the name comes up, her popularity is past its early explosive days, and children given this name now will be able to really make it their own.
Who Might Like It: Parents aiming for a sweet spot name that is strong and feminine may love this fresh but familiar choice. Meaning “little dark one,” the name was originally given to babies born with dark features or a dark complexion. So lovers of Irish or Gaelic names or those with Irish heritage might want to celebrate a thick head of dark hair or big bold eyes with this charming name. Ciara is the Irish spelling, and it makes a great alternative to Kira (though, fair warning, it is likely to be mispronounced like Sierra in the US).