Cora: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

By Tara Gunn

Updated August 7, 2024

Table of contents

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Cora mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Greek: Maiden; filled heart
French: Beloved

Gender: Female

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Cora is pronounced ko-ruh.

The name Cora has its roots in Greek mythology, where it is associated with the goddess Persephone, also known as Kore, meaning "maiden". It signifies purity and innocence and has historically been used either on its own or as a diminutive form of the name Corinne. The name Cora exudes a timeless charm and simplicity, making it a favored choice across different cultures and eras.

Girl name variations

How Popular Is The Name Cora

Family name origins & meanings

Galician: habitational name from places called Cora in Lugo and Pontevedra provinces.

Famous people with this last name

Cat Cora

Cora in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

Cora Crawley from Downton Abbey - Lady Cora is the American wife of Lord Grantham, known for her kind disposition and strong sense of duty.Popularity of the Name Cora
Cora Munro from The Last of the Mohicans - A brave and determined woman, she is one of the main characters in this historical novel and its adaptations.
Cora Mills from Once Upon a Time - Also known as the Queen of Hearts, she is a powerful and manipulative sorceress in this fantasy TV series.
Cora Tannetti from The Sinner - A complex character who unravels a dark past, she is at the center of this psychological thriller.
Cora from Coraline - Based on Neil Gaiman's novel, Coraline Jones is referred to as Cora. She is a young girl who discovers a parallel universe.

Popularity of the Name Cora

According to Social Security Administration data, Cora has been experiencing a resurgence in popularity over the past decade. It ranked within the top 100 names for girls in 2023. In Greek mythology, Cora (or Kore) is the euphemistic name of Persephone, goddess of fertility and the underworld.

Historically, the name was more common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Notable Coras include the American writer Cora Crane and the actress Cora Witherspoon. In literature and media, Cora Crawley is a beloved character in the TV series Downton Abbey, and Cora Munro is the heroine of James Fenimore Cooper’s novel The Last of the Mohicans. The name's vintage charm continues to appeal to modern parents.