Rising since 2017, #11,932 for girls today.
Popularity of Iara since 2002
Babies named Iara per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2009, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Iara's real moment was 2024.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 80 |
| 2010s | 83 |
| 2020s | 56 |
Meaning & origin
Iara first appeared in U.S. records in 2002, but it has deep roots in Brazilian folklore, where it names a water spirit. The name has been on a rising trajectory since 2017, reaching its peak rank of 11,932 in 2024. In 2023, approximately 1 in every 229,610 baby girls was named Iara, reflecting its niche but growing appeal. The name remains uncommon in the U.S., with no dominant state favorites, but it carries cultural weight in Portuguese-speaking communities. Its melodic sound and mythological connection make it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a nature-inspired name with a rich backstory.
Iara is derived from the Tupi language, from 'y' (water) and 'îara' (lady), meaning 'lady of the water.' In Brazilian folklore, Iara is a beautiful water spirit, similar to a siren or mermaid, who lures fishermen with her song. The name entered Portuguese usage through Brazilian culture and has been used as a given name in Brazil and among Portuguese-speaking communities.
“Iara” around the world
Where Iara lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
10
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Yara
Sibling names for Iara
Names that share Iara's style, for a brother or sister.
