Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
Samara is a name of Hebrew origin meaning 'to guard' or 'to protect.' It has evolved through forms like Shomer and Samar before becoming the modern Samara. The name is often associated with traits of strength and security, although it does not have a specific biblical relevance. It gained popularity in the late 20th century and is now seen as a contemporary and fashionable choice.
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/səˈmɑːrə/
Origin
Hebrew
Etymology
The name Samara is derived from the Hebrew word 'samar,' which means 'to guard' or 'to protect.'
Meaning
to guard, to protect
Language Evolution
Shomer, Samar, Samara
Historical Usage
The name Samara gained popularity in the late 20th century and has been used in various cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities.
Variants & Derivatives
Sam, Sami, Sammy
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, Samara is perceived as a trendy and modern name, often associated with strength and protection.
Famous People
Samara Weaving, Samara Wiley
📊 Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Name Visualizations
Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Highly Popular name with 1,270 peak births in 2018
Geographic Spread
Popular across 46 US states, with strongest presence in Nevada
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 6 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Alternative Spellings & Similar Sounds (6 Variations)
Explore names that share identical pronunciation with different spellings. These variations offer alternative options for parents seeking unique yet familiar-sounding choices. This curated collection includes 6 carefully selected variations that maintain the same phonetic sound while providing distinct spelling options.
Why consider alternative spellings? Different spellings can offer unique cultural significance or personal preference while maintaining the familiar sound. This collection covers various spelling patterns, helping you find variations that match your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 23106th of 23106 | 5 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 4814th of 12526 | 127 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 1468th of 19264 | 1,128 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 1213th of 27321 | 2,126 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 570th of 35406 | 8,120 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 364th of 30306 | 10,301 |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- |
100.00% 2430th/2430 |
- | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
48.96% 1438th/2937 |
30.86% 1075th/3483 |
52.64% 1852nd/3518 |
39.09% 1581st/4044 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
34.82% 1283rd/3685 |
18.59% 832nd/4475 |
30.42% 1580th/5194 |
22.57% 1426th/6317 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
12.48% 572nd/4582 |
9.47% 489th/5164 |
8.11% 593rd/7313 |
8.04% 600th/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
13.50% 538th/3984 |
7.49% 336th/4487 |
5.29% 361st/6822 |
5.16% 324th/6276 |
State-by-State Popularity
This map shows relative popularity across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends in the United States
This name shows strongest popularity in Nevada across all generations. It ranks highest as a Girl name among the Generation Alpha generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is gaining popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. Recent 3-year trends show this Boy name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, usage has been too falling for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, too falling for female in South, too falling for female in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, too falling for female in South, stalled for female in West. Across generations, popularity patterns vary significantly: Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 23106th out of 23106 names. Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 4814th out of 12526 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 1468th out of 19264 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 1213th out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 570th out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 364th out of 30306 names. Explore how this name has evolved through American history with comprehensive regional and generational analysis.