Find out how popular the first name Detra has been for the last 25 years (from 1974 to 1998) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Detra by gender

Based on the last 25 years of data, Detra is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1998, there were 7 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Detra.

The history of the first name Detra

The given name Detra is believed to have originated from the Old English word "deor," which means "beloved" or "dear." Its origins can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period in Britain, between the 5th and 11th centuries AD. The name is thought to have been derived from a combination of the Old English words "deor" and "tra," which means "tree" or "wood."

In ancient Anglo-Saxon culture, names often held symbolic meanings related to nature, virtues, or personal characteristics. The name Detra likely signified someone who was deeply beloved or cherished, with the "tra" element potentially referring to a connection with the natural world or a specific tree or woodland area.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Detra can be found in various medieval texts and records from England and parts of northern Europe. One notable historical figure bearing this name was Detra of Mercia, a minor noblewoman who lived in the 8th century during the reign of King Offa of Mercia.

Throughout the centuries, the name Detra has been borne by several notable individuals, although it has remained relatively uncommon compared to other names of the time. In the 11th century, Detra of Wessex was a respected abbess who oversaw a prominent monastery in southern England. During the 13th century, Detra de Montfort was a member of the influential Montfort family and played a role in the conflicts between King Henry III and the rebel barons.

In more recent history, Detra Farr was an American folk singer and activist who championed environmental causes in the mid-20th century. She was born in 1923 and passed away in 2002. Another notable bearer of the name was Detra Bahr, a German author and journalist who published several books on cultural and social issues in the late 20th century. She was born in 1937 and died in 2015.

While the name Detra has maintained a presence throughout history, it has remained relatively uncommon compared to other names of the same period. Its ancient origins and connection to nature and virtue have contributed to its enduring legacy, albeit on a smaller scale.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Detra was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Detra, please contact us.

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