Rising since 2001, #1,047 for girls today.
Popularity of Inara since 1998
Babies named Inara per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 19 |
| 2000s | 383 |
| 2010s | 1,159 |
| 2020s | 1,018 |
Meaning & origin
Inara entered the U.S. baby name charts in 1998 and has been rising steadily, particularly since 2001. In 2025 it ranked 1047th overall, with a 1-in-6,782 birth rate, marking its peak year to date. The name is most popular in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Washington state, reflecting a coastal, urban allure. Its Arabic etymology ('ray of light') gives it a luminous quality that appeals to parents seeking a name that is both distinctive and melodious. Though not yet common, Inara's trajectory suggests continued growth as it becomes increasingly familiar.
Inara is an Arabic name meaning 'ray of light' or 'splendor', derived from the root n-w-r (light). It is also associated with the concept of being heaven-sent. The name has gained popularity in English-speaking countries since the late 1990s, possibly influenced by its melodic sound and positive meaning. It remains relatively uncommon but has a loyal following.
Where Inara is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Inara” around the world
Where Inara lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
15
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ina, Nara, Ara
Sibling names for Inara
Names that share Inara's style, for a brother or sister.
