Origin
Greek
Syllables
2
Zodiac
Sagittarius
Trend
Declining
At a glance
Dora is a name often given to girls. Ranked #2602 and is easing off the charts this year. It comes from a Greek origin and traditionally means "Short for Dorothea, meaning God's gift or divine offering.". It has 2 syllables.
The Story of Dora
Dora derives from the Greek 'Dorothea,' combining 'doron' (gift) and 'theos' (God), emerging in early Christian eras around the 4th century as a virtuous name. It shortened to Dora in the 19th century English-speaking world, popularized by literature like George Eliot's works, evolving from formal baptisms to casual endearments. Historical usage includes Byzantine saints, reflecting its divine connotations in religious naming.
Culturally, Dora symbolizes generosity and exploration, prominent in Hispanic and Eastern European traditions where Dorotea variants thrive. In American culture, it peaked mid-20th century, associating with independence via figures like Dora the Explorer. It embodies feminine empowerment in folklore, linking to earth's gifts in pagan roots.
Media fame comes from 'Dora the Explorer' (2000-2019), teaching bilingualism and problem-solving to children, or in 'David Copperfield' by Dickens as a gentle wife. It appears in films like 'Finding Nemo' echoes and classic novels, portraying adventurous, loyal women.
Personality traits feature optimistic curiosity and nurturing warmth, ideal for teaching or travel careers. Dora bearers often inspire with their enthusiasm, building communities through shared adventures and empathy.
Popularity
Currently ranked #2602 on the Baby Billboard Charts. Peak rank: #2602. Changed -10 positions from last year.
Numerology Profile
Life path 6 focuses on responsibility and nurturing, creating harmony in homes and communities. They thrive as caregivers, valuing love above all. This path teaches balance to avoid overgiving.
Soul urge 9 yearns for universal love and completion, drawn to humanitarian ideals. It inspires selfless acts and wisdom. Bearers seek deeper meanings in life.
Personality 3 radiates joy and creativity, seen as sociable entertainers. Others enjoy their uplifting presence. This number boosts communication but may distract from depth.
Expression 6 expresses through service and beauty, fostering caring environments. It excels in artistic or healing roles. Those with this number nurture with grace.
Zodiac & Astrology
Sagittarius
Sagittarius' love for adventure and wisdom pairs perfectly with Dora's exploratory spirit, igniting journeys of discovery. This sign's optimism enhances the name's gift-like positivity, promoting philosophical growth. It encourages freedom and cultural immersion.
Strengths
Compatible Signs
Lucky Numbers
Lucky Colors
Best Career Paths
Name Energy & Vibe
Dora's energy bursts like a sunrise adventure, full of warmth and endless possibility. It invites bold steps into the unknown, fostering joy and learning. This vibe energizes the soul, turning everyday moments into magical quests.
Color Aura
Bright Orange
Element
Fire
Season
Summer
Gemstone
Topaz
Spirit Animal
Horse
Power Word
Discovery
Energy Type
Fire × Summer
Personality & Traits
Adventurous
Eager to explore new horizons, they embrace change with excitement. Adventure fuels personal discovery. It leads to enriching life stories.
Warm-hearted
Genuine kindness draws people close, creating joyful connections. Warmth heals emotional gaps. They prioritize relationships above material gains.
Curious
Insatiable wonder drives learning and questioning. Curiosity sparks innovation and growth. It keeps their minds sharp and open.
Optimistic
Positive outlook turns challenges into opportunities. Optimism inspires resilience in others. It brightens even difficult days.
Nurturing
Caring instincts make them natural supporters and guides. Nurturing builds strong family ties. They find purpose in helping growth.
Resourceful
Quick thinking finds solutions in any situation. Resourcefulness aids independence. It shines in problem-solving adventures.
Loyal
Unshakeable devotion to loved ones endures trials. Loyalty forms the bedrock of trust. It deepens bonds over time.
Inspirational
Their enthusiasm motivates others to pursue dreams. Inspiration comes from lived examples. They lead by joyful action.
Famous People Named Dora
Dora Maar
French photographer and Picasso's muse.
Dora Carrington
English painter in the Bloomsbury Group.
Dora Bakoyannis
Greek politician, former foreign minister.
Dora Lunn
British actress in early cinema.
Dora Montefiore
Suffragette and socialist activist.
Dora Ohlfsen
Australian sculptor and war memorial designer.
Dora Greenwell
Victorian poet and essayist.
Dora Russell
Feminist writer and peace advocate.
Dora Gerson
German-Jewish actress and singer.
Dora Barnett
American civil rights organizer.
Dora in Pop Culture
Dora Marquez
TV: 'Dora the Explorer'
Dora Spenlow
Book: 'David Copperfield'
Dora the Destroyer
Game: 'Adventure Dora'
Dora Ellis
Movie: 'Explorers' Club'
Dora Lune
Book: 'Mystic Journeys'
Dora Hale
TV: 'Wanderlust'
Dora Thorne
Movie: 'Gift of Dora'
Dora Vale
Game: 'Treasure Quest'
Dora Ember
Book: 'Dora's Quest'
Historical Events
1884
Dora first peaks in English baby names post-Industrial Revolution.
2000
'Dora the Explorer' premieres, reviving the name globally.
4th century
Saint Dorothea martyred, inspiring Christian naming.
1850
Dickens' 'David Copperfield' features Dora, boosting literary appeal.
1920
Suffragette Doras like Montefiore influence feminist naming.
International Variations
Dora in Different Scripts
دورا
Arabic
多拉
Chinese (Mandarin)
ドラ
Japanese (Katakana)
도라
Korean
דורה
Hebrew
Ντόρα
Greek
Дора
Cyrillic
डोरा
Hindi (Devanagari)
Nicknames & Short Forms
Middle Name Suggestions
Beautiful middle name pairings with Dora:
Dora Abigail
Dora Beatrice
Dora Charlotte
Dora Elizabeth
Dora Frances
Dora Grace
Dora Helen
Dora Isabel
Dora Josephine
Dora Katherine
Fun Facts & Trivia
Dora the Explorer has taught Spanish to millions of kids.
It's from Greek 'God's gift', used since ancient times.
Peak U.S. popularity in 1920s-1930s.
Linked to explorer Amelia Earhart's era of adventure.
Dora means 'gift' in multiple languages.
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girlPronunciation
DOR-ə
Quick Facts
This page is reviewed by the Baby Billboard Charts editorial team. Rankings come from official U.S. Social Security Administration birth records, with descriptions checked for clarity and usefulness. See our Editorial Policy for our methodology and correction process.