Moira

What does Moira mean?

Behind Moira lies the meaning “Star of the sea”. The name comes from Irish — a group of names that has grown noticeably more popular in Germany since the 1990s. Name meanings are rarely definitive; where several readings circulate we list the most common first. Treat them as origin stories rather than definitions.

Sound, length and pronunciation

It is pronounced MOY-ra. Ending on a vowel gives it a soft, open finish — names like this pair especially well with short, hard surnames.

At 5 letters and 2 syllables, Moira sits exactly in the range name researchers describe as well balanced — long enough to stand on its own, short enough for everyday use.

How popular is the name?

At rank 35, Moira is sought-after without being overused. For many parents this zone is ideal: known enough never to need explaining, rare enough not to feel interchangeable.

Variants and spellings of Moira

Moira shares a root or meaning with one other name. Some are pure spelling variants, others independent names from the same root.

Does Moira suit your surname?

Before committing: write Moira out with the surname and read it aloud. Repeated sounds at the join tend to slur together.

Sibling names that go with it

Parents who go on to have a second child often want names that work together. Moira pairs well with Pádraig, Séamus.

Registry offices in Germany, Austria and Switzerland

In Germany the registry office decides whether a first name may be entered. It must be recognisable as a first name and must not harm the child's wellbeing. Austria applies comparable criteria, and in Switzerland the civil registry decides. Moira is an established name and entirely unproblematic in all three countries.