Lyra

♀ Girl

Pronounced LY-rah /ˈlaɪ.rə/High

Meaning: From Greek lyra meaning lyre, the stringed instrument of Apollo and Orpheus; also the name of a constellation containing the star VegaHigh

In 30 seconds: Lyra is a luminous Greek name meaning 'lyre' — the instrument of Orpheus and Apollo — and the name of the constellation containing Vega, made beloved by Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials.

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Origin HighGreek, Latin

MeaningFrom Greek lyra meaning lyre, the stringed instrument of Apollo and Orpheus; also the name of a constellation containing the star Vega

U.S. rank (2025)#435 ↗ Rising

2025 U.S. births711 girls (0.04% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2025

Total births (all-time)≈ 8,089

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

History & Origin

Lyra comes from Greek lyra, the ancient stringed instrument associated with Apollo and Orpheus. As a constellation name, Lyra has been recognized since antiquity, its brightest star Vega being among the most luminous in the night sky.

As a given name, Lyra surged internationally after Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy (1995–2000) and has accelerated further since the 2019 HBO/BBC adaptation.

Did you know? The constellation Lyra, containing the brilliant star Vega, represents the lyre of Orpheus in Greek mythology — and the name Lyra became an international phenomenon after Philip Pullman chose it for the fearless heroine of His Dark Materials.

Overall data confidence 96%

Behind the Name — Lyra — etymology and cultural historyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

LiraLyra

Nicknames

Famous Bearers

★Lyra Belacqua (fictional)
Protagonist of Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy; portrayed by Dafne Keen in the HBO/BBC adaptation.

If you like Lyra…

Aria— shares the musical heritage and the same bright, soaring three-letter feel

Clio— fellow ancient Greek mythological name with the same celestial, literary quality

Thalia— shares the Greek mythology roots and the same musical, starry character

Aurora— shares the celestial, luminous quality and the same ethereal feminine appeal

Frequently Asked

What does the name Lyra mean?

Lyra means lyre, the ancient Greek stringed instrument associated with Apollo and Orpheus; it is also a constellation.

How do you pronounce Lyra?

It is said LY-rah /ˈlaɪ.rə/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Did His Dark Materials make Lyra popular?

Yes, Philip Pullman's novels introduced Lyra to a global audience, and the 2019 TV adaptation accelerated its rise.

Is Lyra a popular name?

Lyra has been rising rapidly in the U.S. and UK since the 2010s and is now inside the top 300 girls' names.