Find out how popular the first name Nierra has been for the last 8 years (from 2005 to 2012) and learn more about the meaning and history.
A feminine name of unknown origin, possibly a variant of Sierra.
Based on the last 8 years of data, Nierra is exclusively a female name.
For the most recent data in 2012, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Nierra.
Year | Male Count | Female Count |
---|---|---|
2012 | 0 | 5 |
2008 | 0 | 5 |
2007 | 0 | 7 |
2005 | 0 | 5 |
The name Nierra is believed to have originated from the ancient Sumerian civilization, which flourished in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) around 4500-1900 BCE. It is derived from the Sumerian word "ni-er-ra," meaning "heavenly light" or "radiant sky."
In Sumerian mythology, Nierra was the name of a minor goddess associated with the stars and celestial bodies. Her name was often invoked in prayers and rituals related to astrology and astronomical events. The earliest known mention of the name Nierra can be found in cuneiform inscriptions on clay tablets from the city of Ur, dating back to around 2500 BCE.
During the later Babylonian and Assyrian periods, the name Nierra continued to be used, although its popularity waned over time. It is believed that some ancient Mesopotamian scribes and scholars may have borne this name, but records are scarce and incomplete.
In the centuries that followed, the name Nierra appears to have been preserved and passed down through various cultures and languages in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions. One notable figure who bore this name was Nierra of Antioch, a Christian martyr who lived in the 3rd century CE and was executed for her faith during the Roman persecutions.
Another historical figure named Nierra was a 9th-century Arab poetess from Baghdad, known for her eloquent and influential verses. She was a contemporary of the famous poet Abu Nuwas and was renowned for her skill in composing panegyrics (praise poems) for the Abbasid caliphs.
In the medieval period, the name Nierra found its way into various European languages, likely through cultural and linguistic exchanges during the Crusades and other interactions between the East and West. One notable bearer of this name was Nierra de Châtillon, a French noblewoman who lived in the 12th century and was known for her patronage of the arts and literature.
During the Renaissance, a Italian painter named Nierra Borgia (1510-1573) gained recognition for her portraits and religious works, which adorned many churches and palaces in Italy.
While the name Nierra has remained relatively uncommon throughout history, it has been carried by a few notable individuals across different cultures and time periods, reflecting its ancient Sumerian roots and the enduring fascination with celestial and astronomical themes.
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 Nierra was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.
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"Nierra first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com. Accessed on August 4, 2025. http://namecensus.com/first-names/nierra-meaning-and-history/.
"Nierra first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com, http://namecensus.com/first-names/nierra-meaning-and-history/. Accessed 4 August, 2025
Nierra first name popularity, history and meaning. NameCensus.com. Retrieved from http://namecensus.com/first-names/nierra-meaning-and-history/.
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