Holding steady.
Popularity of Nedra since 1906
Babies named Nedra per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 53 |
| 1910s | 618 |
| 1920s | 711 |
| 1930s | 1,014 |
| 1940s | 1,299 |
| 1950s | 1,228 |
| 1960s | 954 |
| 1970s | 665 |
| 1980s | 432 |
| 1990s | 76 |
| 2000s | 33 |
| 2010s | 21 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Nedra is a name with a somewhat mysterious origin, first recorded in the United States in 1906. It likely emerged as a modern invention, perhaps drawing from the name Nadia or the English diminutive 'ned', meaning 'little'. The name saw its peak popularity in 1941, a year that marked its highest usage according to Social Security data. Despite a trajectory that has remained stable over the decades, Nedra has never ranked among the top 1000 names, reflecting its status as a rare and distinctive choice. While it is not strongly associated with any particular region, its use has been scattered across the country. The name has a straightforward pronunciation (NED-ruh) and offers simple nickname options like Ned or Neddie. For parents seeking an uncommon name with a vintage feel, Nedra pairs well with sibling names from similar eras, such as Nora or Nelson.
Nedra first appeared in the early 20th century, likely as a coinage combining a fashionable sound with the suffix -dra. It may have been inspired by names like Nadia or by the English word 'ned' meaning 'little' (as in 'neddy'), though its exact derivation remains uncertain. The name saw modest use in the United States starting in the 1900s, with a peak in popularity in the 1940s.
Where Nedra is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ned, Neddie, Dra
Sibling names for Nedra
Names that share Nedra's style, for a brother or sister.
