Shira is a Hebrew name derived from the word "shir" meaning "song" or "poem". It has its origins in ancient Semitic languages and is found in Biblical texts from around the 7th century BCE.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of the name Shira is in the Book of Exodus, where it refers to a victory song sung by the Israelites after crossing the Red Sea. This suggests that the name may have been associated with celebration and triumph in its earliest usage.

In the Middle Ages, the name Shira was used by Jewish communities across Europe and the Middle East. A notable example is Shira Gorni, a 13th-century Hebrew poet and philosopher from Spain. Her works explored themes of love, spirituality, and the struggles of Jewish life during that era.

During the Renaissance period, the name Shira gained popularity in Italy. One of the most famous bearers of the name was Shira Coen Rappa, a 16th-century Jewish writer and translator from Venice. She was renowned for her translations of classic works into Hebrew and her contributions to Jewish literature.

In the 20th century, Shira became a more widely used name globally. Shira Gorshman, born in 1924, was an Israeli artist and sculptor known for her abstract and modernist works. Her sculptures can be found in public spaces throughout Israel.

Another notable figure is Shira Haas, an Israeli actress born in 1995. She gained international recognition for her role in the critically acclaimed TV series "Unorthodox", which earned her a Primetime Emmy nomination in 2020.

While the name Shira has maintained its Hebrew roots, it has also been adopted by various cultures and communities around the world, reflecting its connection to music, poetry, and artistic expression.