Debra

female

Origin

Derived from the Hebrew name 'Deborah', meaning 'bee'. The name appears in the Bible as the name of a prophetess and a judge of Israel, with historical mentions dating back to ancient religious texts. In Australian contexts, the name has been adopted through Christian influence and is used across various communities. It is not of Aboriginal or Māori origin.

Meaning

Literal translation: 'bee', symbolising industriousness and community. In Australian English, it carries connotations of sweetness, diligence, and a nurturing nature.

Pronunciation

/ˈdɛbrə/ (Aus)) – the accent often adds a slightly more rounded vowel sound at the end, resembling /ˈdɛbɹə/,” “stress on the first syllable, with a clear pronunciation.

Variants & Nicknames

Variants

  • Deborah (full form)
  • Debi, Deb, Debs (diminutives)
  • Delilah (less common, but occasionally used as a more elaborate variation)

Nicknames

  • Deb, Debs, Debbi, Debbie, Debrah (less common)
  • historical_context
  • Debra has been a popular name in Australia throughout the late 20th century, embraced by various Australian celebrities and characters in media. Although not tied to any particular historical figure in Australia, it is associated with themes of leadership and resilience due to biblical connotations.
  • geography
  • Debra is most common in urban and suburban areas across all Australian states, with slightly higher usage in New South Wales and Victoria during the peak of its popularity.
  • traits
  • Diligent, nurturing, friendly, optimistic, compassionate.
  • famous
  • Debra Lawrance (Australian actress), Debra Byrne (singer and actress), Debra Messing (internationally known actress with Australian heritage)
  • linguistic_adaptability
  • The name 'Debra' adapts well into many languages, often as Deborah or Deborah-like variants, with similar pronunciation in English, Hebrew, and other European languages.
  • aesthetic
  • The name has a classic, balanced typographic appearance that is easy to read and visually appealing in both casual and formal contexts.
  • numerological
  • Name Number 7, associated with introspection, spiritual awareness, and analytical abilities, often linked to leadership qualities in contemporary numerology.
  • astrological
  • Associated with the zodiac sign Virgo, reflecting qualities of practicality, diligence, and analytical thinking.
  • is_aboriginal
  • false
  • is_maori
  • false}}

Name Days

  • 04 December (Feast of Saint Deborah)
  • 26 July (Māori celebration of Abundant Harvest in some regions, symbolically associated with 'Deborah' as a figure of wisdom and leadership).
  • pairing_recommendations
  • Charlotte and Matilda
  • Sophie and Emily
  • Alice and Daisy

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with debra:

  • Charlotte and Matilda
  • Sophie and Emily
  • Alice and Daisy

Fun Facts

  • The name Debra gained popularity in Australia during the 1960s and 1970s, aligning with global naming trends.
  • Debra is also used as a surname in some Australian regions.
  • The name is associated with a character in Australian literature and film, although less frequently than other classic names.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name debra:

  • Diligent
  • Nurturing
  • Friendly
  • Optimistic
  • Compassionate

Aesthetic Qualities

The spelling 'Debra' has a clean, simple aesthetic that aligns with classic and contemporary tastes in Australian naming conventions, appealing for its clarity and elegance.

Geographical Distribution

Most commonly found in urban Australian populations, particularly in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. It is less common in remote Indigenous communities.

Numerological Significance

Name Number 7, associated with introspection, wisdom, and spiritual matters, indicating a person reflective and insightful in personality and life choices.

Astrological Connections

Linked to Virgo in astrology, symbolising meticulousness, practicality, and dedicated service, qualities often associated with individuals bearing the name.

Historical Context

Debra has been a common name in Australia especially during the late 20th century, often chosen by families of Christian faith. It gained popularity due to cultural influences from America and Britain, reflecting trends of the time. Australian celebrities and media figures have helped maintain its visibility, though its usage has declined in recent decades.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name 'Debra' adapts easily across languages, with equivalents such as Deborah in Hebrew and Deborah in many European languages—pronounced similarly.

Famous People Named debra

  • Debra Lawrance (Australian actress)
  • Debra Byrne (singer and actress)
  • Debra Messing (internationally renowned actress, Australian-born)

Popularity in Australia

Year Count
2015 1
1976 39
1975 49
1974 39
1973 155