Meira: a female name of Hebrew origin meaning "This name derives from a Jewish masculine given name "Me'ir," meaning "one who shines, giving light, illuminate".It derives from the Hebrew word "Me'ir".
Meira is a feminine name that means "This name derives from a Jewish masculine given name "Me'ir," meaning "one who shines, giving light, illuminate". Its Hebrew 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 Meira
Quick facts about Meira
Origin
Hebrew
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 a Jewish masculine given name "Me'ir," meaning "one who shines, giving light, illuminate." Rabbi Me'ir was a Jewish sage who lived in the time of the Mishna. He was considered one of the greatest of the Tannaim of the third generation (139–163).
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Me'ir
Other Scripts
Hebrew (מֵאִירָה)
How to Pronounce Meira
Meira is pronounced /ˈmeɪ.rə/(Hebrew)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Meir-a
Say it like: "MEIR-A"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Meira is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
english
Name Relationships
The masculine counterpart to Meira is Meir, sharing the same Hebrew etymology and core meaning. Both names derive from the same linguistic root.
Meira means "This name derives from a Jewish masculine given name "Me'ir," meaning "one who shines, giving light, illuminate." Rabbi Me'ir was a Jewish sage who lived in the time of the Mishna. He was considered one of the greatest of the Tannaim of the third generation (139–163).". The name comes from Me'ir. In its original form, the name derives from Me'ir (מֵאִיר). This hebrew name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Meira for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from a Jewish masculine given name "Me'ir," meaning "one who shines, giving light, illuminate." Rabbi Me'ir was a Jewish sage who lived in the time of the Mishna. He was considered one of the greatest of the Tannaim of the third generation (139–163)." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Meira's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Meira?
Meira is a hebrew name. The name traces back to Me'ir. The original form Me'ir (מֵאִיר) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Meira is written as Hebrew (מֵאִירָה). The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The hebrew meaning "This name derives from a Jewish masculine given name "Me'ir," meaning "one who shines, giving light, illuminate." Rabbi Me'ir was a Jewish sage who lived in the time of the Mishna. He was considered one of the greatest of the Tannaim of the third generation (139–163)." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Meira a boy or girl name?
Meira is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In hebrew tradition, Meira has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from a Jewish masculine given name "Me'ir," meaning "one who shines, giving light, illuminate." Rabbi Me'ir was a Jewish sage who lived in the time of the Mishna. He was considered one of the greatest of the Tannaim of the third generation (139–163)." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Meira?
Meira is pronounced "/ˈmeɪ.rə/". This pronunciation follows he language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Hebrew (מֵאִירָה), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Meira is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Meira can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Me'ir influences how Meira sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Meira?
Meira is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Meira offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Meira's popularity may vary between hebrew communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from a Jewish masculine given name "Me'ir," meaning "one who shines, giving light, illuminate." Rabbi Me'ir was a Jewish sage who lived in the time of the Mishna. He was considered one of the greatest of the Tannaim of the third generation (139–163)." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Meira holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Meira?
Meira is related to Meir (feminine). The feminine version Meir carries the same essential meaning, adapted to fit naming conventions for girls. In hebrew tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from a Jewish masculine given name "Me'ir," meaning "one who shines, giving light, illuminate." Rabbi Me'ir was a Jewish sage who lived in the time of the Mishna. He was considered one of the greatest of the Tannaim of the third generation (139–163).", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Meira might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english, Meira may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Meira commonly used?
Meira is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Meira found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from a Jewish masculine given name "Me'ir," meaning "one who shines, giving light, illuminate." Rabbi Me'ir was a Jewish sage who lived in the time of the Mishna. He was considered one of the greatest of the Tannaim of the third generation (139–163)." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Meira into their naming traditions. A child named Meira 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, Meira is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.