Elmira
Elmira: name meaning, origin and popularity
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɛlˈmaɪ.ɹə/
Meaning and origin of Elmira
Root meaning: “noble”
- A female given name from the Germanic languages.
Etymology
Possibly a feminine equivalent of Elmer, from Proto-Germanic *aþalaz (“noble”) + *mēraz (“famous”), as in Spanish Edelmira. Introduced through literature (Molière, Goethe).
How popular is Elmira?
Since 1880, 4,360 girls in the U.S. have been named Elmira. Its highest rank for girls was #392 in 1887. In 2025, 11 babies were given the name, outside the top 1,000.
Names similar to Elmira
Names that start with the same letters, most popular first.
More Germanic girl names
Sibling name ideas for Elmira
Sister and brother names that share Elmira's Germanic roots and are still in the U.S. top 1,000.
Elmira FAQ
What does the name Elmira mean?
Elmira traces back to a root meaning "noble". A female given name from the Germanic languages. Possibly a feminine equivalent of Elmer, from Proto-Germanic *aþalaz (“noble”) + *mēraz (“famous”), as in Spanish Edelmira. Introduced through literature (Molière, Goethe).
What is the origin of the name Elmira?
Elmira is listed as a name of Germanic origin.
How popular is the name Elmira?
Since 1880, 4,360 girls in the U.S. have been named Elmira. Its highest rank for girls was #392 in 1887. In 2025, 11 babies were given the name, outside the top 1,000.
Is Elmira a boy or girl name?
Elmira is mostly a girl name in the U.S.: 4,360 girls and 0 boys since 1880.
Popularity data: U.S. Social Security Administration baby name data, 1880–2025 (names given to 5+ babies per year). Origin and etymology text: Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.