Elara

♀ Girl

Pronounced eh-LAR-uh /ɛˈlɑːr.ə/High

Meaning: In Greek mythology Elara was a mortal woman loved by Zeus; the name may derive from Greek root ela related to brightness or from a pre-Greek substrate word of uncertain meaningMedium

In 30 seconds: Elara is a luminous, mythological name from Greek legend. It is also the name of a moon of Jupiter, giving it a cosmic, otherworldly quality that makes it a rising star among celestial-themed girl names.

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Origin MediumGreek

MeaningIn Greek mythology Elara was a mortal woman loved by Zeus; the name may derive from Greek root ela related to brightness or from a pre-Greek substrate word of uncertain meaning

U.S. rank (2025)#942 ↗ Rising

2025 U.S. births275 girls (0.02% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2025

Total births (all-time)≈ 1,789

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

In Greek mythology, Elara was a daughter of King Orchomenus and a lover of Zeus, by whom she bore the giant Tityos. The name appears in ancient sources including the Library attributed to Apollodorus.

As a modern given name, Elara has surged in popularity in the 21st century, driven by the trend for celestial names and its musical, three-syllable sound. It sits at the intersection of mythology and astronomy.

Did you know? Elara is one of Jupiter's moons, discovered in 1905 by astronomer Charles Dillon Perrine. At around 80 kilometers in diameter, it belongs to the Himalia group of irregular satellites and was named after the Greek mythological figure.

Overall data confidence 75%

Behind the Name — Elara — mythology and etymologyNASA Solar System Exploration — Elara — moon designation

Variations

EllaraElara

Nicknames

EllieLaraElla

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Elara…

Lyra— shares the celestial mythology connection and short lyrical sound

Luna— same astronomical theme and soft feminine appeal

Celia— same three-syllable elegance with a classical mythology feel

Aurora— shares the celestial, mythological grandeur and vowel-rich sound

Frequently Asked

What does the name Elara mean?

Elara comes from Greek mythology and may relate to brightness or joy. It is also the name of one of Jupiter's moons.

How do you pronounce Elara?

It is said eh-LAR-uh, with three syllables and stress on the second.

Is Elara a popular name?

Elara has been rising in popularity in the 2010s and 2020s, driven by the trend for celestial and mythological names.

Is Elara a moon of Jupiter?

Yes, Elara is a small irregular moon of Jupiter discovered in 1905, named after the figure in Greek mythology.