Holding steady.
Popularity of Ketra since 1963
Babies named Ketra per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 30 |
| 1970s | 125 |
| 1980s | 78 |
| 1990s | 22 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Ketra is a rare feminine name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1963 and has never ranked among the top 1000 names. Its peak year was 1975, and as of 2025 the trajectory remains stable, with no sharp rise or decline. The name may be a modern shortening of Keturah, a biblical name of Hebrew origin meaning 'incense,' or a purely invented form drawn from fashionable sounds. Its simplicity and distinctive 'K' initial give it a clean, modern feel, though its origins are ultimately uncertain. Given its low usage and lack of top-state concentration, Ketra remains a highly uncommon choice.
Ketra first appeared in U.S. records in 1963 and saw its highest usage in the 1970s. It may be a shortened form of Keturah, a biblical name of Hebrew origin meaning 'incense,' or simply a modern coinage formed from popular sounds (e.g., the 'K' initial and '-tra' ending). Its low but consistent usage suggests it has remained a rare choice.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ket, Keke
Sibling names for Ketra
Names that share Ketra's style, for a brother or sister.
