A 1890s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Nera since 1894
Babies named Nera per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1928, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Nera's real moment was 1894.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 5 |
| 1900s | 7 |
| 1910s | 30 |
| 1920s | 46 |
| 1930s | 5 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 10 |
| 2010s | 21 |
| 2020s | 27 |
Meaning & origin
Nera is a rare and delicate name that has never entered the top 1,000 U.S. baby names. First recorded in 1894, it saw its peak year of usage that very same year, with a revival trend beginning around 2010. The name's uncertain origins add to its mystique, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking something uncommon. While it has no recorded top states of popularity, its gentle sound and modern feel have contributed to its recent upward trajectory.
Nera is a name of uncertain origin. It may be a modern coinage or a short form of names such as Nerissa, a Shakespearean invention, or Nereida, from Greek mythology. Alternatively, it could be a variant of Nara, a name with Japanese or other roots. The name has seen occasional use in the United States since the late 19th century, with a notable revival in recent decades.
Sibling names for Nera
Names that share Nera's style, for a brother or sister.

