Declining since 2005, #7,885 for girls today.
Popularity of Electra since 1910
Babies named Electra per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 62 |
| 1920s | 84 |
| 1930s | 56 |
| 1940s | 13 |
| 1950s | 57 |
| 1960s | 71 |
| 1970s | 93 |
| 1980s | 94 |
| 1990s | 135 |
| 2000s | 249 |
| 2010s | 150 |
| 2020s | 83 |
Meaning & origin
Electra, with its striking mythological roots, has never been a common choice in the United States. The name first appeared in Social Security records in 1910, but its use has been sparse. It reached its peak popularity in 2006, yet even then it remained rare. The trajectory has been falling since 2005, reflecting a general decline in interest for classical mythological names. Despite its low rank of 7885 in 2025, the name carries a powerful legacy from Greek tragedy, making it a distinctive option for parents seeking a name with deep cultural resonance. The one-in-123,636 incidence rate underscores its rarity, appealing to those who prefer unique names.
Electra derives from the Greek word 'ēlektron,' meaning 'amber' or 'shining.' In Greek mythology, Electra was a daughter of King Agamemnon and Queen Clytemnestra, and she played a key role in the Oresteia cycle. The name has been used in English-speaking countries since the 19th century, particularly after being featured in works by Sophocles and Euripides.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ella, Lek, Trixie
Sibling names for Electra
Names that share Electra's style, for a brother or sister.
