Ishara: a female name of Akkadian (Babylonian) origin meaning "Ishara (išḫara) is the Hittite word for “treaty, binding promise,” also personified as a goddess of the oath".It derives from the Akkadian (Babylonian) word (išḫara) (Ištar).
The name Ishara carries a rich history rooted in Akkadian (Babylonian) culture. Derived from "(išḫara) (Ištar)", this feminine name embodies the essence of Ishara (išḫara) is the Hittite word for “treaty, binding promise,” also personified as a goddess of the oath. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Akkadian (Babylonian)-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Ishara
Quick facts about Ishara
Origin
Akkadian (Babylonian), Hittite-hurrian
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
Ishara (išḫara) is the Hittite word for “treaty, binding promise,” also personified as a goddess of the oath. In Alalah, her name was written with the Akkadogram “Ištar” plus a phonetic complement “-ra” (Ištar-ra). This name derives from the Akkadian (Babylonian) “ištar.” Ishtar is the Assyrian and Babylonian goddess of fertility, war, love, and sex. She is the counterpart to the Sumerian “Inanna” and the cognate north-west Semitic goddess “Astarte”.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
(išḫara) (Ištar)
How to Pronounce Ishara
Ishara is pronounced /ɪˈʃɑː.rə/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ishar-a
Say it like: "ISHAR-A"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across english, and german speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
englishgerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Ishara
What does the name Ishara mean?
Ishara means "Ishara (išḫara) is the Hittite word for “treaty, binding promise,” also personified as a goddess of the oath. In Alalah, her name was written with the Akkadogram “Ištar” plus a phonetic complement “-ra” (Ištar-ra). This name derives from the Akkadian (Babylonian) “ištar.” Ishtar is the Assyrian and Babylonian goddess of fertility, war, love, and sex. She is the counterpart to the Sumerian “Inanna” and the cognate north-west Semitic goddess “Astarte”.". The name comes from (išḫara) (Ištar). This akkadian (babylonian) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Ishara for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "Ishara (išḫara) is the Hittite word for “treaty, binding promise,” also personified as a goddess of the oath. In Alalah, her name was written with the Akkadogram “Ištar” plus a phonetic complement “-ra” (Ištar-ra). This name derives from the Akkadian (Babylonian) “ištar.” Ishtar is the Assyrian and Babylonian goddess of fertility, war, love, and sex. She is the counterpart to the Sumerian “Inanna” and the cognate north-west Semitic goddess “Astarte”." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Ishara's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like HITTITE-HURRIAN MYTHOLOGY, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Ishara?
Ishara has akkadian (babylonian) and hittite-hurrian origins. The name traces back to (išḫara) (Ištar). From its akkadian (babylonian) roots, Ishara spread to become common in english, german. The akkadian (babylonian) meaning "Ishara (išḫara) is the Hittite word for “treaty, binding promise,” also personified as a goddess of the oath. In Alalah, her name was written with the Akkadogram “Ištar” plus a phonetic complement “-ra” (Ištar-ra). This name derives from the Akkadian (Babylonian) “ištar.” Ishtar is the Assyrian and Babylonian goddess of fertility, war, love, and sex. She is the counterpart to the Sumerian “Inanna” and the cognate north-west Semitic goddess “Astarte”." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Ishara a boy or girl name?
Ishara is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In akkadian (babylonian) tradition, Ishara has historically been given to girls. The meaning "Ishara (išḫara) is the Hittite word for “treaty, binding promise,” also personified as a goddess of the oath. In Alalah, her name was written with the Akkadogram “Ištar” plus a phonetic complement “-ra” (Ištar-ra). This name derives from the Akkadian (Babylonian) “ištar.” Ishtar is the Assyrian and Babylonian goddess of fertility, war, love, and sex. She is the counterpart to the Sumerian “Inanna” and the cognate north-west Semitic goddess “Astarte”." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Ishara?
Ishara is pronounced "/ɪˈʃɑː.rə/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Ishara is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, german, 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 akkadian (babylonian) names, listening to a native speaker say Ishara can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Ishara?
Ishara is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Ishara offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Ishara's popularity may vary between akkadian (babylonian) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "Ishara (išḫara) is the Hittite word for “treaty, binding promise,” also personified as a goddess of the oath. In Alalah, her name was written with the Akkadogram “Ištar” plus a phonetic complement “-ra” (Ištar-ra). This name derives from the Akkadian (Babylonian) “ištar.” Ishtar is the Assyrian and Babylonian goddess of fertility, war, love, and sex. She is the counterpart to the Sumerian “Inanna” and the cognate north-west Semitic goddess “Astarte”." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Ishara holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Ishara commonly used?
Ishara is common in english and german naming traditions. Though akkadian (babylonian) in origin, Ishara found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "Ishara (išḫara) is the Hittite word for “treaty, binding promise,” also personified as a goddess of the oath. In Alalah, her name was written with the Akkadogram “Ištar” plus a phonetic complement “-ra” (Ištar-ra). This name derives from the Akkadian (Babylonian) “ištar.” Ishtar is the Assyrian and Babylonian goddess of fertility, war, love, and sex. She is the counterpart to the Sumerian “Inanna” and the cognate north-west Semitic goddess “Astarte”." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Ishara into their naming traditions. A child named Ishara 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, Ishara is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Ishara?
Ishara carries associations with HITTITE-HURRIAN MYTHOLOGY. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "Ishara (išḫara) is the Hittite word for “treaty, binding promise,” also personified as a goddess of the oath. In Alalah, her name was written with the Akkadogram “Ištar” plus a phonetic complement “-ra” (Ištar-ra). This name derives from the Akkadian (Babylonian) “ištar.” Ishtar is the Assyrian and Babylonian goddess of fertility, war, love, and sex. She is the counterpart to the Sumerian “Inanna” and the cognate north-west Semitic goddess “Astarte”." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In akkadian (babylonian) culture, where Ishara 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 Ishara sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Ishara 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.