Nora name meaning, origin and popularity
Meaning, origin, similar names and Australian ranking history.
The name Nora
Story and style
Nora is a historic and traditional name for girls. The name moved through older European forms before becoming familiar in English.
As a baby name, Nora feels established and familiar without sounding too formal. It can stand on its own or sit beside longer related forms such as Elinor, Leonor, Eleonora. Because Nora is already short, it does not really need a nickname, though Ellie can work casually.
At a glance
The quick version
More about Nora
Background notes
Origin
Nora is used as a nickname of Eleanor. Nora is commonly traced to Medieval European given name with disputed origin. It is associated with Old French or Occitan roots. It is connected with the root name Eleanor.
Names with this background often travelled through several languages before settling into modern English forms, which gives Nora a sense of history without making it feel dated.
History and background
Nora has a long European naming history, with older forms moving through medieval languages before becoming familiar in English.
What style of name is Nora?
Nora has a historic, established feel without sounding overly formal. It sits naturally beside names like Alice, Daisy and Hannah: names that feel related in sound, style or popularity.
Nicknames and variations
Common nickname options include Ellie, Nell, Nora. Related forms may include Elinor, Leonor, Eleonora.
Names similar to Nora
If you like Nora, you might also like:
Nora ranking history in Australia
Published national top-100 ranking by year
Nora was most recently listed at 62nd in 2025, and appeared in the Australian top 100 in 5 of 18 years we currently cover.
| Year | Rank |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 62nd |
| 2024 | 70th |
| 2023 | 82nd |
| 2022 | 88th |
| 2021 | 97th |
| 2020 | Not in top 100 |
| 2019 | Not in top 100 |
| 2018 | Not in top 100 |
| 2017 | Not in top 100 |
| 2016 | Not in top 100 |
| 2015 | Not in top 100 |
| 2014 | Not in top 100 |
| 2013 | Not in top 100 |
| 2012 | Not in top 100 |
| 2011 | Not in top 100 |
| 2010 | Not in top 100 |
| 2009 | Not in top 100 |
| 2008 | Not in top 100 |