Tyra

Updated: October 27, 2023 by Olivia Mittak

When you hear the baby name Tyra, you likely first think of supermodel Tyra Banks. What is interesting, however, is that this baby name likely goes back to ancient Viking traditions and the name Thor. Though no longer a top 1,000 baby name, Tyra is just over a top 4,000 option.

Meaning and Origin of the Name Tyra:

Tyra could be the modern, feminized version of the male name Tyrone. This option was an Irish and Gaelic name that was once a surname. The name could also come from the Celtic word “terra,” however. The most likely origin is Scandinavian, coming from the old Norse name Porvi. Porvi came from the name Porr, which was a variation of Thor. The name has a few different meanings. The Scandinavian meaning is “god of battle”, the Celtic meaning is “land”, and the Gaelic meaning is “from the land of the yew tree”.

Symbolism of the Name Tyra:

The baby name Tyra likely means “god of battle” as it eventually dates back to the name Thor, who was the god of thunder and the war. Some state, however, that Tyra is a variation of “terra,” meaning “land”. Finally, Tyrone, which Tyra could be the feminine form of, means “from the land of the yew tree”. Parents can definitely find symbolism with all of these meanings!

Nicknames for the Name Tyra:

When it comes to Tyra, there aren't too many options for nicknames. Fear not, though, since there are still some options available to you! Here are all of the best nicknames for Tyra:

Ty
Ty Ty
Ra
Ray
Tay Tay
Tay
Ra-Ra
Tee
Tia
Tyr
Tyr-Rex

Style of the Name Tyra:

Traditional or modern, depending on the origin

Gender of the Name Tyra:

Tyra is a wholesome baby name for girls.

Pronunciation of the Name Tyra:

TIE-rah

Number of Syllables in the Name Tyra:

Two

Emotion Evoked From the Name Tyra:

Tyra is a baby name full of personality that is outgoing. It is wholesome, kind, and approachable.

Alternative Spellings for the Name Tyra:

Tyrah
Tira
Tirah
Tyrra
Tyrrah

Popularity of the Name Tyra:

Tyra became a top 1,000 name in 1964 at rank 995. It was most popular from 1997 to 1999 as a top 400 option. 2007 was the last year Tyra was on the top 1,000 list, ranking at number 950.