girl name · Irish origin
Nora
/ NOR-uh /
Meaning
Nora means Honour; light (Irish).
Gender
Girl
Origin
Irish
Pronunciation
NOR-uh
Popularity
#20 · U.S. girls (2025)
Popularity of Nora in the US, 1880–2025
Nora first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 2025, when 6,380 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 6,380.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
What does Nora mean?
A short form of Honora (“honour”) and Eleanor (“light”).
Names like Nora
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Nora mean?
Nora means Honour; light. A short form of Honora (“honour”) and Eleanor (“light”).
What is the origin of the name Nora?
Nora is of Irish origin.
How do you pronounce Nora?
Nora is pronounced “NOR-uh.”
Is Nora a boy or a girl name?
Nora is most commonly used as a girl name.
How popular is the name Nora?
In 2025, Nora ranked #20 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Nora most popular?
Nora was most popular in 2025, when about 6,380 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.