Verdict: Kore is a standout choice for a baby born in 2026. It offers the perfect alternative to the skyrocketing popularity of Cora, providing that same vintage charm but with a rarer, more elemental twist.
Kore Overview
- Meaning: Maiden
- Gender: Feminine
- Origin: Greek
- Pronunciation: “KOR-ee” or “KOR”
- Popularity: Not popular in the US.
- Nicknames: Koko, Kor.
- Variations: Kora, Corey.
- Namesakes: Akshayraj Kore, Kore Tola, Prashant Kore.
What Does Kore Mean?
The name Kore translates directly to “maiden” or “daughter” in Ancient Greek. However, the significance of the name goes far beyond a simple dictionary definition. In classical mythology, Kore is the epithet (an honorary title) used for Persephone, the Goddess of Spring and Queen of the Underworld.
The name represents a duality of innocence and power. As “Kore,” she is the youthful maiden of spring, representing new beginnings, flowers, and fertility. As “Persephone,” she is the formidable queen. By choosing this name, you are bestowing a title that signifies eternal youth and the turning of the seasons.
Where Does the Name Kore Come From?
The name Kore is of Greek origin. It is the primordial form of the Anglicized name Cora. Its usage dates back to antiquity, specifically found in the Homeric Hymns and ancient cult worship surrounding the Eleusinian Mysteries, which celebrated Demeter and her daughter.
While the Latinized version “Cora” gained massive popularity in the English-speaking world during the 19th century (and again today), Kore remains the authentic, traditional spelling that stays truer to its Hellenic roots. It is a name that has survived for thousands of years, transitioning from a divine title to a rare but usable given name.
How Popular is the Name Kore?
While its cousin Cora has become a top-ranking hit in the United States, Kore remains a hidden gem. It is not currently ranked in the top 1,000 names by the Social Security Administration, making it a truly unique choice for parents who want to avoid playground duplicates.
In 2021, the name ranked 13,383rd most popular, indicating it is given to fewer than a dozen babies per year. This rarity is a significant asset for parents seeking exclusivity. While names like Corey skyrocketed in the 90s and Cora is a current vintage darling, Kore sits in a sweet spot: it feels familiar due to its sound but looks distinct and intriguing on paper.
How Do I Pronounce Kore?
Because this name bridges the gap between ancient history and modern English, there are two accepted ways to handle the pronunciation:
- The Classical Pronunciation: “KOR-ee” (Rhymes with story). This is accurate to the Greek origin (Kórē).
- The Modern Pronunciation: “KOR” (Rhymes with door). This is common for parents who view it as a variant of the French word for heart (Coeur) or a sleek, one-syllable middle name.
Is Kore a Boy or Girl Name?
Historically and mythologically, Kore is strictly a feminine name, as it literally translates to “maiden” and belongs to a goddess. However, in the modern era, the line has blurred. Because it sounds identical to “Corey” (which is technically a unisex name often leaning masculine), Kore can easily work as a gender-neutral option. It is currently used primarily for girls, but its sharp spelling gives it a rugged edge that could suit any gender.
Variations of Kore
If you love the sound of Kore but want to explore different spellings or cultural variations, there are several options. The Latinized “Cora” is the most famous, but there are many ways to tailor this name to your heritage.
- Cora (Latin)
- Corinna (Ancient Greek)
- Kora (German/Modern)
- Corey (Irish)
- Corinne (French)
- Coraline (Literary)
- Korina (Slavic)
- Korey (Americanized)
- Corinna (English)
Nicknames for Kore
Though Kore is a short name, it lends itself well to affectionate diminutives. You can lean into the “K” sound for something spunky, or the “R” sound for something softer.
- Ko: Short, sweet, and effortless.
- Koko: A playful, energetic option for a child.
- Ori: A creative nickname pulling from the middle vowel sound.
- Re-Re: A repetitive sound that is easy for toddlers to say.
- Kor: If you pronounce the full name as “Kor-ee,” this is the natural short form.
- Kory: A tomboyish spelling.
Names Similar to Kore
If you are drawn to Kore because of its Greek roots, mythological ties, or short vowel-heavy sound, these names carry a very similar vibe.
- Rhea: Another major Greek Titaness and mother figure; short and ending in a vowel.
- Gaia: The personification of Earth; shares that ancient, elemental feel.
- Nyx: The Greek goddess of night; a short, powerful three-letter name.
- Clio: The muse of history; stylish and ending in ‘o’.
- Juno: The Roman queen of gods; regal yet punchy.
- Kyra: A Greek name meaning “Lord” or “Throne,” sharing the distinct “K” beginning.
- Lyra: A celestial name connected to the lyre of Orpheus.
- Xanthe: Meaning “yellow” or “fair hair,” this is another quirky Greek choice.
- Thalia: The muse of comedy; light, airy, and classical.
- Io: One of the shortest mythological names, distinct and rare.
Middle Names for Kore
Because Kore is short and often pronounced with two syllables ending in a vowel sound (KOR-ee), it pairs beautifully with longer, consonant-heavy middle names or nature-inspired choices.
Classic & Timeless
These names ground Kore, giving it a sophisticated and traditional feel.
- Kore Elizabeth
- Kore Alexandra
- Kore Victoria
- Kore Matilda
- Kore Genevieve
- Kore Emmeline
Nature & Boho
Lean into the “Spring Maiden” meaning of Kore with these earth-inspired pairings.
- Kore Juniper
- Kore Willow
- Kore Magnolia
- Kore Clementine
- Kore Marigold
- Kore Azalea
Modern & Edgy
For a bolder sound, pair Kore with one-syllable power names or modern favorites.
- Kore Lux
- Kore Jett
- Kore Quinn
- Kore Sloane
- Kore Blair
- Kore Wren
Sibling Names for Kore
When building a sibling set around Kore, you want names that are equally evocative but distinct. Greek names are a natural fit, as are names that feel “vintage revival.”
For a Brother
- Atlas: A Titan name that has become incredibly trendy and pairs perfectly with Kore.
- Orion: A strong hunter constellation name.
- Damon: Classic Greek, easy to spell, and timeless.
- Evander: A strong, rarely used name meaning “good man.”
- Leander: Soft, romantic, and historically rich.
For a Sister
- Phoebe: A Titan name meaning “bright,” popular in the New Testament as well.
- Daphne: A nymph associated with laurel trees; shares the Greek origin.
- Selene: The moon goddess; ethereal and matching Kore’s vibe.
- Calliope: A longer, melodic name that contrasts nicely with the short Kore.
- Ianthe: A purple flower name from mythology that is rare and beautiful.
Famous People Named Kore
While rare as a first name in the West, Kore appears globally as both a surname and a given name.
- Kore: A French-Algerian music producer known for his work in the R&B and Raï genres.
- Kore Yamazaki: A celebrated Japanese manga artist, best known for creating “The Ancient Magus’ Bride.”
- Hirokazu Kore-eda: An acclaimed Japanese film director and screenwriter (using Kore-eda as a surname).
- Kore Tola: An Ethiopian long-distance runner.
- Akshayraj Kore: An Indian Chess Grandmaster.
Kore in Pop Culture
The name Kore appears across various media, often referencing its mythological roots or used for its futuristic sound.
- Kore (Mythology): The alternate name for Persephone, arguably the most famous bearer of the title in human history.
- Kore: A moon of Jupiter, named after the goddess (1).
- The Kore Gang: A cult classic platforming video game.
- Kore: A character in the DC Comics universe, associated with the Teen Titans lore.
FAQs About the Name Kore
These are some of the most popular questions parents ask when considering the name Kore.
Who Is Kore in Greek Mythology?
Kore is the original name/epithet for Persephone in Greek mythology. The story goes that Persephone/Kore was the daughter of Demeter, the goddess of agriculture. Hades kidnapped her, and she became the queen of the underworld after eating six pomegranate seeds. (2)
Her mother was so distraught at her daughter’s absence that she did not help the plants grow. A compromise was made that Persephone would spend six months in Hades, one for each seed she ate. The rest of the year, she would spend with her mother. This division of time is used to explain the scarceness of some seasons and the lushness of others.
This figure may have multiple names for a few different reasons. In some versions of the tale, she is referred to as Kore before her abduction and Persephone after. It is also possible that this figure is the conflation of a few similar figures, including Kore and Persephone. Different sects of the Hellenic religion may prefer one name over the other.
Is There a Masculine Version of Kore?
A close masculine or unisex version of the name Kore would be Corey. In Greek, this name means king of the Olympiad. In Irish, it means from the hill or hallow, and in Scottish, it means seething pool.
Core is also considered a masculine name. However, rather than being Greek and meaning maiden, it is Irish, and means ravine.
Do Any Names Have the Same Meaning As Kore?
Maiden is the primary meaning of the name Kore. There are plenty of names that share that same meaning. These names include Ethel, Ella, Arwen, Dagmar, Jezebel, Imogen, Riva, and Nalin.
Is Kore a Religious Name?
Yes, Kore is deeply tied to ancient Hellenic religion and paganism. It was the title used by initiates in the Eleusinian Mysteries, one of the most famous secret religious rites of ancient Greece. For modern Pagan families or those interested in mythology, it is a name with significant spiritual weight. However, it is not associated with Judeo-Christian texts.
Why Is Kore Less Popular Than Cora?
Cora is the Latinized version of Kore. Historically, Latinized names became more dominant in Western Europe and English-speaking countries because they were easier to spell and pronounce for Romance language speakers. “Cora” gained massive popularity in the Victorian era due to literature (like “The Last of the Mohicans”), solidifying its place in the naming charts, while Kore remained viewed as a strictly historical or academic spelling.
Can Kore Be Short for Anything Else?
While Kore is a standalone name, it can function as a creative short form for longer names starting with “Kor” or “Cor.” These might include Cordelia, Coraline, Kordula, Kornelia, or even Courtney. Using Kore as the nickname gives these vintage or traditional names a modern, spunky update.
Does Kore Rhyme with Door or Story?
This depends entirely on your preference, though “rhymes with Story” is historically accurate. In Ancient Greek, the “e” at the end is pronounced (Kor-ee). However, in modern English, many people see the spelling “Kore” and assume it rhymes with “Core/Door/More.” If you choose this name, you should be prepared to correct people’s pronunciation occasionally, or simply accept both variations.
Is Kore Related to the Word Core?
Etymologically, no. The English word “core” (meaning the center of something) has uncertain origins but likely comes from the Old French “coeur” (heart) or Latin “cor.” The name Kore is distinct and comes from the Greek “Kórē” (maiden). However, the visual similarity appeals to parents who view their child as the “center” or “heart” of their lives.
