Find out how popular the first name Norah has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Norah by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Norah is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 100% of people named Norah being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 1,479 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Norah.

The history of the first name Norah

The name Norah has its origins in the Irish and Gaelic languages, with roots dating back to the early medieval period. It is derived from the Gaelic word "Nuala," which means "daughter of the honorable one." The name Norah is a diminutive or pet form of Nuala, often used as an affectionate nickname.

In ancient Irish mythology, there are references to a goddess named Nuada, who was associated with healing and warfare. It is possible that the name Norah has some connection to this mythological figure, though the direct link is uncertain. The name has been in use in Ireland for centuries and was particularly popular among the Gaelic-speaking population.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Norah can be found in the Annals of Ulster, an ancient Irish chronicle dating back to the 15th century. In this text, a woman named Norah O'Donnell is mentioned, though details about her life are scarce. Another early example is Norah Barnwell, an Irish noblewoman who lived in the late 16th century and was known for her patronage of the arts.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Norah. One of the most famous was Norah Borges, an Argentinian writer and translator who lived from 1901 to 1998. She was the sister of the renowned author Jorge Luis Borges and played a significant role in promoting his work.

Another influential figure was Norah Richards, an American educator and civil rights activist who lived from 1876 to 1949. She founded the Richards Memorial School in West Virginia, which provided education to African American children during a time of widespread segregation.

In the world of literature, Norah Lofts (1904-1983) was a British author known for her historical novels, including the acclaimed "Town House" series. In the field of music, Norah Jones (born 1979) is a Grammy-winning American singer-songwriter who has achieved global success with her blend of jazz, pop, and folk genres.

While the name Norah may have originated in Ireland, it has since gained popularity in various parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its enduring appeal lies in its soft, melodic sound and its connection to Irish heritage and culture.

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 Norah was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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