Hera

What does the baby name Hera mean? Learn about what Hera means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Hera - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Hera: H-E-R-A, is a 4-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Hera: HER-ə; HEAR a
Meaning of Hera: Protectress, heroine, wife of zeus, vital force.
Origin of Hera: The name 'Hera' finds its roots in ancient Greek mythology. 'Hera', the queen of the gods and the goddess of marriage and childbirth, was a powerful figure in Greek culture. The name 'Hera' is believed to have originated from the Greek word 'heros', meaning 'protector' or 'lady'. Its earliest known use can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was used to honor the goddess herself.; Ancient Greek Names; God And Goddess Names; Greek Names; Maori Names; Mythological Names; New Zealand Names; Pacific Islander Names; Polynesian Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Hera: Heria
Popularity of Hera: Throughout history, the popularity of the name 'Hera' has experienced fluctuations. In ancient Greece, it was a name of great significance, often bestowed upon girls in honor of the goddess. However, as time passed, the popularity of the name declined. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Greek mythology, leading to a slight increase in the usage of the name 'Hera'. While not as common as some other names, it remains a unique and meaningful choice for parents seeking to honor the goddess or embrace their love for Greek culture.; Hera currently has 118 likes, and is in the top 6% of liked girl's names. The name Gwyneth is slightly more popular than Hera.

Etymology of Hera

To truly understand the name 'Hera', we must delve into its linguistic roots. As mentioned earlier, 'Hera' is derived from the Greek word 'heros'. This word has its origins in the Proto-Indo-European language, which is the ancestral language of many modern-day languages. The Proto-Indo-European root 'ser' means 'to protect' or 'to watch over'. From this root, various languages have developed words with similar meanings, such as the Latin 'servare' and the English 'guardian'. Thus, the name 'Hera' carries with it the notion of protection and guardianship.

Cultural Significance of Hera

The name 'Hera' holds particular significance within the realm of Greek culture. As the queen of the gods, 'Hera' was revered and respected by the ancient Greeks. Her name symbolized the ideals of marriage, family, and feminine power. Today, the name 'Hera' can still evoke a sense of strength and femininity, resonating with those who appreciate the rich mythology and history of ancient Greece.