Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Keira”

Origin and Historical Background

The name Keira has its origins in Celtic and Irish cultures. It is a modern adaptation of the traditional Irish name Ciara, which means “dark” or “black” in Gaelic. Historically, the name Ciara was used to describe someone with dark features or dark hair. The name Keira gained international popularity largely due to notable public figures and the broader interest in Irish names.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

Keira, meaning “dark,” often symbolizes mystery, depth, and beauty. In various cultures, darkness is associated with elements like night-time, serenity, and elegance, contributing to the name’s connotations of being mysterious and attractive. The name Keira has also been associated with traits of strength and resilience, likely derived from the robust history of people named Ciara or Keira in Celtic tales and legends.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Keira

1. Keira Knightley

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Acclaimed actress known for her roles in “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Pride & Prejudice,” and “Atonement.”
• Cultural Impact: Knightley has significantly impacted modern cinema and is known for her versatile acting skills and strong female roles.

2. Keira Chaplin

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Model and actress, granddaughter of Charlie Chaplin.
• Cultural Impact: Chaplin has influenced both the modeling world and independent cinema, upholding a legacy connected to one of the most iconic figures in film history.

Usage Over Time

The name Keira saw a significant rise in popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. According to the Social Security Administration’s baby name data, Keira surged in popularity during the 2000s and 2010s. The name appealed to parents for its melodic sound and the trending interest in Celtic and Irish names.

Pronunciation Guide

Keira is pronounced as KEER-uh, with the emphasis on the first syllable. The name’s phonetic spelling helps in correctly articulating its melodic and soft sound, making it easy to pronounce and remember.

Biblical Context

Keira does not have direct references or context in the Bible. Its roots are distinctly Irish, and it is not considered a traditional biblical name. However, its meaning “dark” could symbolically be interpreted in various spiritual contexts concerning themes of strength and resilience.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

The name Keira has a numerological number of 3, which is associated with creativity, social interaction, and optimism.

Variations

Variants of the name include Ciara, Kira, Kyra, and Kirra.

Cultural Variants

In Irish, it is Ciara (KEER-a); in Russian, it is Kira (KEE-rah); and in Japanese, Kirra is used, retaining a similar pronunciation.

Popularity Information

Keira has been featured among the top 1000 baby names in the United States. Specifically, it gained popularity in the 2000s and 2010s, reaching its peak in the mid-2000s.

Conclusion

Keira is a name rich in cultural history and modern appeal. Its meaning, “dark,” conjures images of mystery, elegance, and beauty, making it a unique and fitting choice for a baby girl. Whether inspired by its Celtic roots or modern influences, Keira stands out as a name of strength and grace.

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