Astra: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “astḗr (ᾰ̓στήρ),” meaning “a celestial body, aster, illustrious person".It derives from the Greek word "astḗr".
Astra is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “astḗr (ᾰ̓στήρ),” meaning “a celestial body, aster, illustrious person". Its Greek origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.
Quick Facts About Astra
Quick facts about Astra
Origin
Greek
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Ancient Greek “astḗr (ᾰ̓στήρ),” meaning “a celestial body, aster, illustrious person.” 1) Asteria was the daughter of the Titans Coeus and Phoebe and sister of Leto. According to Hesiod, by Perseus, she had a daughter Hecate. The Titan goddess of nocturnal oracles and falling stars, Asteria flung herself into the Aegean Sea in the form of a quail in order to escape the advances of Zeus. 2) In Greek mythology, Astraea / Astrea was the daughter of Zeus and Themis or Eos and Astraeus. She and her mother were both personifications of justice, though Astraea was also associated with innocence and purity.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
astḗr
Other Scripts
Russian (Астра)
How to Pronounce Astra
Astra is pronounced /ˈæs.trə/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ast-ra
Say it like: "AST-RA"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Astra enjoys international appeal, used in 4 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, russian, latvian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
englishrussianlatvianitalian
Frequently Asked Questions About Astra
What does the name Astra mean?
Astra means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “astḗr (ᾰ̓στήρ),” meaning “a celestial body, aster, illustrious person.” 1) Asteria was the daughter of the Titans Coeus and Phoebe and sister of Leto. According to Hesiod, by Perseus, she had a daughter Hecate. The Titan goddess of nocturnal oracles and falling stars, Asteria flung herself into the Aegean Sea in the form of a quail in order to escape the advances of Zeus. 2) In Greek mythology, Astraea / Astrea was the daughter of Zeus and Themis or Eos and Astraeus. She and her mother were both personifications of justice, though Astraea was also associated with innocence and purity.". The name comes from astḗr. In its original form, the name derives from astḗr (ᾰ̓στήρ). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Astra for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “astḗr (ᾰ̓στήρ),” meaning “a celestial body, aster, illustrious person.” 1) Asteria was the daughter of the Titans Coeus and Phoebe and sister of Leto. According to Hesiod, by Perseus, she had a daughter Hecate. The Titan goddess of nocturnal oracles and falling stars, Asteria flung herself into the Aegean Sea in the form of a quail in order to escape the advances of Zeus. 2) In Greek mythology, Astraea / Astrea was the daughter of Zeus and Themis or Eos and Astraeus. She and her mother were both personifications of justice, though Astraea was also associated with innocence and purity." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Astra's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like STARS AND HEAVENLY BODIES, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Astra?
Astra is a greek name. The name traces back to astḗr. The original form astḗr (ᾰ̓στήρ) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Astra is written as Russian (Астра). From its greek roots, Astra spread to become common in english, russian, latvian, italian. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “astḗr (ᾰ̓στήρ),” meaning “a celestial body, aster, illustrious person.” 1) Asteria was the daughter of the Titans Coeus and Phoebe and sister of Leto. According to Hesiod, by Perseus, she had a daughter Hecate. The Titan goddess of nocturnal oracles and falling stars, Asteria flung herself into the Aegean Sea in the form of a quail in order to escape the advances of Zeus. 2) In Greek mythology, Astraea / Astrea was the daughter of Zeus and Themis or Eos and Astraeus. She and her mother were both personifications of justice, though Astraea was also associated with innocence and purity." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Astra a boy or girl name?
Astra is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Astra has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “astḗr (ᾰ̓στήρ),” meaning “a celestial body, aster, illustrious person.” 1) Asteria was the daughter of the Titans Coeus and Phoebe and sister of Leto. According to Hesiod, by Perseus, she had a daughter Hecate. The Titan goddess of nocturnal oracles and falling stars, Asteria flung herself into the Aegean Sea in the form of a quail in order to escape the advances of Zeus. 2) In Greek mythology, Astraea / Astrea was the daughter of Zeus and Themis or Eos and Astraeus. She and her mother were both personifications of justice, though Astraea was also associated with innocence and purity." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Astra?
Astra is pronounced "/ˈæs.trə/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Russian (Астра), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Astra is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, russian, latvian, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Astra can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name. The name's root astḗr influences how Astra sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Astra?
Astra is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Astra offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Astra's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “astḗr (ᾰ̓στήρ),” meaning “a celestial body, aster, illustrious person.” 1) Asteria was the daughter of the Titans Coeus and Phoebe and sister of Leto. According to Hesiod, by Perseus, she had a daughter Hecate. The Titan goddess of nocturnal oracles and falling stars, Asteria flung herself into the Aegean Sea in the form of a quail in order to escape the advances of Zeus. 2) In Greek mythology, Astraea / Astrea was the daughter of Zeus and Themis or Eos and Astraeus. She and her mother were both personifications of justice, though Astraea was also associated with innocence and purity." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Astra holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Astra commonly used?
Astra spans multiple cultures, including english, russian, latvian, and 1 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Astra found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Astra, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “astḗr (ᾰ̓στήρ),” meaning “a celestial body, aster, illustrious person.” 1) Asteria was the daughter of the Titans Coeus and Phoebe and sister of Leto. According to Hesiod, by Perseus, she had a daughter Hecate. The Titan goddess of nocturnal oracles and falling stars, Asteria flung herself into the Aegean Sea in the form of a quail in order to escape the advances of Zeus. 2) In Greek mythology, Astraea / Astrea was the daughter of Zeus and Themis or Eos and Astraeus. She and her mother were both personifications of justice, though Astraea was also associated with innocence and purity." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Astra into their naming traditions. A child named Astra will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Astra is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Astra?
Astra carries associations with STARS AND HEAVENLY BODIES. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “astḗr (ᾰ̓στήρ),” meaning “a celestial body, aster, illustrious person.” 1) Asteria was the daughter of the Titans Coeus and Phoebe and sister of Leto. According to Hesiod, by Perseus, she had a daughter Hecate. The Titan goddess of nocturnal oracles and falling stars, Asteria flung herself into the Aegean Sea in the form of a quail in order to escape the advances of Zeus. 2) In Greek mythology, Astraea / Astrea was the daughter of Zeus and Themis or Eos and Astraeus. She and her mother were both personifications of justice, though Astraea was also associated with innocence and purity." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Astra originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Astra sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Astra often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.