Mira is a linguistic chameleon of a name. It is one of those rare, magical monikers that travels the globe effortlessly, changing its meaning, but never its beauty, depending on where it lands. To a Sanskrit speaker, it is the vast ocean; to a Slavic family, it is the essence of peace; to a Latin scholar, it is a wonder to behold.
In an era where parents are torn between vintage revivals like Alice and short, vowel-heavy modern hits like Mia, Mira bridges the gap. It possesses the gravitas of an old-world classic without feeling dusty, and the breezy energy of a modern favorite without feeling fleeting. It is elegant, multicultural, and remarkably adaptable.
Verdict: Mira is an exceptional choice for a baby born in 2025. It offers the “sweet spot” of popularity, familiar enough that everyone can spell it, yet distinct enough that she likely won’t be one of three Miras in her kindergarten class. It is a name that grows with a child, fitting a cute toddler just as well as a CEO or an artist.
Mira Overview
- Meaning: Mira means “female ruler”, “ocean”, “admirable”, “peace”, and many other meanings.
- Gender: Mira is typically a feminine name.
- Origin: The name Mira has multiple origins, including Spanish, Arabic, Sanskrit, Latin, and Slavic.
- Pronunciation: “MIH-rah” or “MYE-ruh”
- Popularity: Mira is a popular name in the United States, ranking at 484 out of the 1,000 top baby names for girls in 2021.
- Nicknames: Mimi, Myr, Myru, Rah, Rah Rah, Rara, and Ray.
- Variations: Mirah, Mirra, Myra, Myrra, and Myrrha.
- Namesakes: Mira Dancy, Mira Gonzalez, Mira Furlan, Mira Lehr, Mira Sorvino.
What Does Mira Mean?
Because Mira appears in so many disparate languages, its definition changes depending on which etymological lens you look through. This makes it a “choose your own adventure” name for parents, allowing you to select the meaning that resonates most with your hopes for your child.
In the Slavic traditions, Mira is derived from the element mir, which means “peace” and “world.” It suggests a person who brings harmony to their surroundings.
In Latin, the name relates to the word mirabilis, meaning “wonderful,” or the verb mirari, meaning “to admire.” This is the same root that gives us the English word “miracle.”
In Sanskrit, Mira (often spelled Meera) means “ocean” or “boundary.” It implies depth, emotion, and limitlessness.
Where Does the Name Mira Come From?
The origin of Mira is truly a global tapestry. It is arguably one of the most multicultural names in existence, having developed independently in several parts of the world.
- The Spiritual Root: In India, the name is deeply historic. It is famously associated with Meera (Mirabai), a 16th-century Hindu mystic poet and devotee of Krishna. Her songs are still sung today, making the name synonymous with devotion and artistic brilliance.
- The Linguistic Root: In Spanish speaking cultures, Mira is connected to the verb mirar (“to look”), though it is used as a name more often due to its Latin antecedent.
- The Royal Root: In Arabic, Mira can be a shortened form of Amira, meaning “princess” or “female ruler.”
- The Slavic Root: In Eastern Europe, it began as a short form for longer Slavic girl names containing the “mir” element, such as Miroslava or Slavomira, before standing on its own.
How Popular is the Name Mira?
Mira is a steady, sophisticated performer in the United States. According to Social Security Administration data, it is a well-established favorite that manages to stay distinctive. It is a “Goldilocks” name: it is neither trendy nor obscure.
While names with similar sounds like Mila and Mia skyrocketed into the Top 10 during the 2010s, Mira took a more gentle path. It entered the Top 1000 in the 1990s and has slowly climbed the ladder. In recent years, it has hovered comfortably within the Top 500. This is excellent news for parents in 2025: it means the name is familiar and accepted, but your daughter is unlikely to be known as “Mira S.” or “Mira B.” in her classroom.
How Do I Pronounce Mira?
The most common international pronunciation is MEE-rah (rhyming with “era” or “Sierra”). This is the standard pronunciation in Spanish, Slavic, and Asian languages.
However, in English-speaking countries, you will occasionally hear MYE-rah (rhyming with “Tyra”). This is often associated with the spelling “Myra,” but some parents use them interchangeably. If you want to avoid confusion, “Meera” is the clearest spelling for the first pronunciation, and “Myra” for the second, though “Mira” traditionally defaults to the “MEE” sound.
Is Mira a Boy or Girl Name?
In the United States and most of Europe, Mira is strictly a feminine name.
However, context matters. In Slavic countries, “Miro” is a common male name, and “Mira” can sometimes be a nickname for male names ending in “mir” (like Vladimir), though this is usually colloquial. In general usage, you can confidently categorize Mira as a girl’s name.
Variations of Mira
Because Mira is a four-letter name found in so many cultures, there are several ways to spell it or elaborate on it to honor a specific heritage.
- Meera: The traditional Sanskrit/Indian spelling.
- Mirra: An Italian or Russian variation that emphasizes the rolling “r.”
- Myra: The anglicized vintage version, popular in the Victorian era.
- Mirella: A melodic Italian diminutive.
- Mireille: The sophisticated French version.
- Amira: An Arabic name often shortened to Mira.
- Miroslava: The full traditional Slavic form.
Nicknames for Mira
Even short names deserve cute pet names. While Mira is brief enough to use in full, family affection often leads to these sweet nicknames:
- Mimi: A classic, bubbly nickname.
- Mir-Mir: A playful repetition often used by toddlers.
- Ra-Ra: Pulling from the ending sound.
- M: The ultra-minimalist, chic option.
- Ira: A vintage-sounding subset of the name.
Names Similar to Mira
If you love the vibe of Mira, short, vowel-heavy, and slightly exotic, but haven’t quite settled, consider these alternatives:
- Mila: More popular and trendy, sharing the Slavic roots.
- Kira: Shares the rhythm but adds a sharper “K” consonant.
- Lyra: A celestial option for parents who love the “ra” ending.
- Mina: Another vintage “M” name that feels timeless.
- Zara: Offers a similar international flair with a bit more sass.
- Mara: A biblical alternative, though with a more somber meaning (“bitter”).
- Vera: A vintage Russian/Latin name meaning “faith” or “truth.”
- Amira: The longer, deeper Arabic origin name.
Middle Names for Mira
Since Mira is a two-syllable, ending-in-A name, it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of middle names.
Classic & Elegant
These names ground Mira, giving it a royal or timeless feel.
Nature-Inspired & Boho
Lean into the “Ocean” or “Peace” meaning with these earthy pairings.
Short & Spunky
One-syllable middle names create a punchy, rhythmic sound.
Sibling Names for Mira
Building a sibling set requires matching the “style” without being too matchy-matchy.
For a Brother
You generally want a name that is gentle but masculine, perhaps with a soft vowel sound.
- Julian: Matches the Roman/Latin elegance.
- Luca: Another cross-cultural hit that works in Italian or English.
- Caleb: Biblical and solid, grounding the ethereal Mira.
- Miles: A subtle nod to the “M” theme without rhyming.
- Ezra: Shares the ending “a” but remains distinctly masculine.
For a Sister
Look for names that are feminine and widely recognized across different languages.
- Elena: A perfect match in elegance and international appeal.
- Aria: Musical and airy, complementing the “ocean” vibe of Mira.
- Luna: Popular and celestial; Mira and Luna sound like a storybook pair.
- Clara: Vintage and sweet, sharing the two-syllable structure.
- Iris: A floral name that feels just as sophisticated as Mira.
Famous People Named Mira
Mira has been worn by artists, actresses, and royals. It is a name associated with creativity and intellect.
- Mira Sorvino: An Academy Award-winning American actress known for her roles in “Mighty Aphrodite” and “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion.”
- Mira Nair: An acclaimed Indian-American filmmaker based in New York City, known for directing “Monsoon Wedding.”
- Mirabai (Meera): The legendary 16th-century Hindu mystic poet and devotee of Krishna.
- Mira Furlan: A Croatian actress best known for her role as Ambassador Delenn in the sci-fi cult classic “Babylon 5.”
- Mira Awad: An Arab-Israeli singer, actress, and songwriter who promotes messages of peace.
Mira in Pop Culture
The name appears frequently in fiction, often chosen for characters who are investigators, royalty, or possess magical qualities.
- Mira, Royal Detective: The protagonist of the popular Disney Junior animated series, who solves mysteries in a fictional kingdom inspired by Indian culture.
- Mira Nova: A feisty princess and Space Ranger from “Buzz Lightyear of Star Command.”
- Mira: A sisterly superhero character in the video game “Animal Crossing: New Leaf.”
- Queen Mira: A character in the DC Comics universe, associated with Aquaman and the kingdom of Atlantis.
FAQs About the Name Mira
Still have questions about this multifaceted name? Here are some common queries from parents.
Does the Name Mira Appear in the Bible?
Mira itself is not a standard Biblical name, though it is phonetically similar to “Marah,” a place mentioned in the Book of Exodus meaning “bitter water.” However, because Mira has Latin and Slavic roots meaning “wonder” and “peace,” many Christian parents view it as a spiritual name referencing the miracle of life or the peace of God.
Is Mira an Italian Name?
Yes, in Italy, Mira can be a diminutive of names like Palmira, Miranda, or Mirella. It also connects to the Italian verb “mirare” (to aim or look at) and the Latin “mirus” (wonderful). It is a recognized and accepted name in Italian culture.
What Does Mira Mean in Gaelic?
While Mira is not a traditional Gaelic name, it is sometimes associated with the word “mear,” which can mean “merry,” “lively,” or “quick.” However, this is a looser etymological connection compared to its strong roots in Slavic and Sanskrit.
Is the Name Mira Rare?
Mira is considered uncommon but not rare. It sits in the “sweet spot” of popularity, it is well within the Top 500 names in the US, making it recognizable, but it is nowhere near the ubiquity of Top 10 names like Olivia or Emma. You are unlikely to encounter multiple Miras in a single small group.
Can Mira Be a Nickname for Miracle?
Absolutely. “Miracle” has become an increasingly popular word-name for modern parents. Mira serves as the perfect grounded nickname for Miracle, softening the boldness of the full name while retaining the etymological link to the Latin “mirabilis” (wonderful).
