Ishtar: a female name of Akkadian (Babylonian) origin meaning "This name derives from the Akkadian (Babylonian) “ištar".It derives from the Akkadian (Babylonian) word "Ištar".
Ishtar is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Akkadian (Babylonian) “ištar". Its Akkadian (Babylonian) 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 Ishtar
Quick facts about Ishtar
Origin
Akkadian (Babylonian)
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 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
Ištar
How to Pronounce Ishtar
Ishtar is pronounced /ˈɪʃ.tɑːr/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ish-tar
Say it like: "ISH-TAR"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Ishtar enjoys international appeal, used in 4 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, french, portuguese, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
englishfrenchportugueseegyptian
Frequently Asked Questions About Ishtar
What does the name Ishtar mean?
Ishtar means "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 Ištar. This akkadian (babylonian) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Ishtar for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "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, Ishtar's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like EGYPTIAN MYTHOLOGY, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Ishtar?
Ishtar is a akkadian (babylonian) name. The name traces back to Ištar. From its akkadian (babylonian) roots, Ishtar spread to become common in english, french, portuguese, egyptian. The akkadian (babylonian) meaning "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 Ishtar a boy or girl name?
Ishtar 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, Ishtar has historically been given to girls. The meaning "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 Ishtar?
Ishtar is pronounced "/ˈɪʃ.tɑːr/". This pronunciation follows ak language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Ishtar is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, french, portuguese, 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 Ishtar can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Ishtar?
Ishtar is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Ishtar offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Ishtar's popularity may vary between akkadian (babylonian) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "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, Ishtar holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Ishtar commonly used?
Ishtar spans multiple cultures, including english, french, portuguese, and 1 other traditions. Though akkadian (babylonian) in origin, Ishtar found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Ishtar, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "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 Ishtar into their naming traditions. A child named Ishtar 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, Ishtar is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Ishtar?
Ishtar carries associations with EGYPTIAN MYTHOLOGY. 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 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 Ishtar 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 Ishtar sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Ishtar 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.