Dara

What does Dara mean?

Dara is a compact, cross-cultural name with more than one established tradition behind it. In Irish usage, it is commonly connected with Daire, a masculine name associated with fruitfulness or abundance. In Persian, Dara is traditionally masculine and is associated with wealth or possession.

It has a clear, gentle sound but a confident presence, making it an appealing choice for any gender. Its international use also gives Dara a simple, modern versatility, while its older roots keep it from feeling newly made.

Historical Context

Dara has separate histories rather than one single origin. In Ireland, the unaccented spelling is used for Daire, an old masculine name linked with the Irish word for fruitfulness or abundance. In Persian tradition, Dara is a masculine name associated with wealth, and it is also found in the Persian literary and royal naming tradition. Its use for girls is more modern and international, sometimes encouraged by its resemblance to names such as Daria.

Popularity of Dara over time

In 2025, Dara was given to 207 girls in the US. Dara has risen sharply over the last 20 years, and is now an uncommon girls' name in the US.

What do parents think of Dara?