The name Kierra is a modern English feminine name derived from the Irish Gaelic name Ciar, meaning "black" or "dark-featured." The name has its origins in ancient Celtic culture, where names often reflected physical attributes or characteristics.

Kierra emerged as a popular name in the late 20th century, particularly in the United States and Canada. While not commonly found in historical records, it is believed to be a variant of the more traditional Irish name Ciara or Kiera, which have been in use for centuries.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Kierra can be traced back to the late 1970s, when it began to appear in birth records across North America. As a relatively new name, there are no well-known historical figures specifically named Kierra, but there are several notable individuals who bear variations of the name.

Ciara, an American singer and songwriter born in 1985, has achieved significant success in the music industry and is one of the most famous bearers of the name. Kiera Knightley, the British actress born in 1985, is also a notable figure who shares the similar spelling Kiera.

Other notable individuals include Kiera Cass, an American author born in 1981, known for her young adult fiction series "The Selection"; Ciara Renée, an American actress and singer born in 1990; and Kiera Hogan, an American professional wrestler born in 1987.

While the name Kierra is relatively new and lacks a deep historical lineage, its Celtic origins and associations with physical attributes like dark features contribute to its unique character and appeal in modern times.