Origin
The name Leora has origins in Hebrew, derived from the Hebrew name לֵאורָה (Le'ora), meaning 'light' or 'my light'. It appears in biblical texts as a less common feminine name and has historical roots in various ancient Semitic cultures. In the context of Australia, it is used mainly as a modern, multicultural name, embraced for its lyrical sound and positive meaning.
Meaning
Literal translation: 'light' or 'my light'. In Australian English usage, it connotes brightness, hope, and clarity, often appreciated in poetic or artistic contexts.
Pronunciation
/liˈɔːrə/ (Australian English pronunciation, stress on second syllable, 'lee-OR-ah') , with the first syllable pronounced like 'lee', and the second like 'or' in 'orchestra'.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Leorah (alternative spelling)
- Liora (closely related, used in Jewish communities)
- Leora (standard spelling)
Nicknames
- Lee
- Lora
- Lori
Name Days
- None widely observed in Christian calendars in Australia, as Leora is a relatively modern name without specific saint associations.
- Not applicable for Aboriginal or Māori cultural celebrations, as the name is of Hebrew origin.
- Māori and Aboriginal cultural events are typically not associated with this name.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with leora:
- Amelia and Leora
- Sophie and Leora
- Charlotte and Leora
Fun Facts
- Leora is a name gaining popularity in Australia due to its gentle sound and positive meaning.
- The name is often chosen by parents appreciating its biblical roots and modern appeal.
- Leora has been used as a character name in Australian literature and media for its lyrical quality.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name leora:
- Optimistic
- Bright-minded
- Compassionate
- Creative
Aesthetic Qualities
The name Leora has a delicate, appealing visual form, with flowing vowels and soft consonants, making it attractive in both handwritten and digital typography.
Geographical Distribution
More commonly found in urban centres like Sydney and Melbourne, where multicultural naming trends flourish. Slightly less common in rural areas but steadily increasing.
Numerological Significance
The name Leora is associated with the number 7 in numerology, which signifies introspection, spirituality, and analytical thinking. It is considered a spiritually fortunate name.
Astrological Connections
Leora is often connected with the Cancer zodiac sign, symbolising nurturing, intuition, and emotional depth, aligning with its gentle, illuminating meaning.
Historical Context
While Leora itself is modern, the biblical and ancient Semitic origins lend it a timeless quality. In Australia, it is often associated with the broader trend of choosing biblical and classic names with modern twists.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts well across languages, maintaining phonetic recognisability in English, Hebrew, and other languages. In non-Latin scripts, it is transliterated directly from Latin alphabets.
Famous People Named leora
- Leora Cohen (Australian actress)
- Leora Dore (author and artist)
- Fictional characters in Australian literature and TV shows sometimes bear the name to evoke gentleness and sensitivity.
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 1 |
2017 | 1 |
2014 | 1 |