Meaning & History
Ira is a masculine given name with Hebrew origins, meaning "watchful." In the Old Testament, Ira is identified as the priest of King David (1 Chronicles 27:9, 2 Samuel 20:26). The name derives from the Hebrew root עִיר, denoting vigilance, but it is distinct from the Arabic name with a homonymous spelling "Ira" meaning "kite" (the bird) or "pure" angels.
Historical and Religious Significance
As an English Christian given name, Ira began to appear after the Protestant Reformation, when biblical names became fashionable. In the 17th century, Puritans brought it to America alongside other Old Testament appellations. Its usage peaked in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, notably among European immigrant communities. Despite a decline in popularity after the 1920s, Ira remains a classic Biblical name recognized across English-speaking countries.
Distribution and Variants
The name "Ira" is a masculine given name dominant in English usage, particularly in the United States. In English Bibles, the name Ira (עִירָא) appears in genealogies of David's kingdom, solidifying its association with priesthood and closeness to royalty. A variant includes the Biblical Hebrew homophone 'Ira ('Ira), though its modern usage is minimal outside religious contexts.
- Meaning: "watchful" (Hebrew)
- Origin: Hebrew, from the Old Testament
- Usage regions: Hebrew, English, English Bible
- Related name: 'Ira