Lyra
Fact sheet
- Name
- Lyra
- Gender
- Girl name
- Syllables
- 2
The female first name Lyra is derived from the ancient string instrument of the same name, Latinized from the ancient Greek root word lúrā (λύρα). The name is often translated in German as 'the lyre', although the lyra is just one specific form of lyres.
What does the name Lyra mean?
The female first name Lyra is derived from the ancient string instrument of the same name, Latinized from the ancient Greek root word lúrā (λύρα). The name is often translated in German as 'the lyre', although the lyra is just one specific form of lyres. The constellation 'Lyra' is also named after the instrument, with its main star being Vega. The lyre already played a role in Greek mythology. The instrument later became a symbol of poetry, from which the modern term 'lyric' is derived. The first name Lyra is predominantly common in English-speaking regions but is not a very frequent girl's name overall. A variant is Lyria.
Where does the name Lyra come from?
The etymology of Lyra is a female first name of ancient Greek origin meaning 'the lyre'. Ancient Greek
How do you pronounce Lyra?
Sound & pronunciation of Lyra: The name Lyra is two syllables and clearly structured. In German pronunciation, it is usually spoken as 'Ly-ra' [ˈlyːʁa] or [ˈliːʁa], beginning with a bright front vowel that conveys lightness. The soft R connects to the open final syllable with A, which gives the name warmth. Lyra thus appears melodic and modern - feminine, harmonious, and sonically balanced.
Popularity
Lyra is a very popular first name in Germany. Currently, it ranks 1,514th in the list of the most common female baby names. Its best ranking was achieved in 2023 at 1,147th place. In the last ten years, Lyra has been given as a first name about 200 times, placing it 1,613th in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 1,777th.
Nicknames & pet names
Iri / Lay / Ly / Lyly / Lyralein / Lyrali / Lyri / Lyrinchen
Famous people
- Lyra (main character from the novel 'Die Heldenmutter' by Wolfgang Hohlbein)
- Lyra Antarctica Sheeran (daughter of Ed Sheeran)
- Lyra Belacqua (fictional character from 'The Golden Compass')
Frequently asked questions about the name Lyra
What does the name Lyra mean?
The name Lyra comes from the ancient string instrument and means 'the lyre'.
Where does the name Lyra come from?
Lyra has its roots in ancient Greek, derived from the word 'lúrā' (λύρα), which stands for 'lyre'.
How popular is the name Lyra?
Lyra is primarily common in English-speaking regions, but overall it is not a very frequent girl's name.