Debra is a shortened, alternative spelling of Deborah. The Hebrew name comes straight from the Bible, though it has a meaning that nature lovers might enjoy too. This particular spelling was super popular during the 20th century, but it fell off the list of the top 1,000 baby names for girls in 1998. It was most popular during the 1950s and even reached the top five list of names for baby girls. Pair Debra with a current middle name to bring it into the 21st century.
Meaning of the name Debra :
Hebrew: Bee
Origin of the name Debra :
Debra is derived from the Hebrew name Dvora, which means “bee.” There are two women in the Bible named Deborah. The most commonly recognized is Deborah, the judge from the Book of Judges. In Genesis, Deborah is a nurse who accompanies Rebecca on a journey.
Symbolism of the name Debra :
Parents of the Christian faith may find symbolism in Debra's biblical background. The meaning “bee” may appeal to new parents who enjoy nature names. Bees pollinate our food and provide us with life, so parents may also find symbolism here.
Style of the name Debra :
Modern
Gender of the name Debra :
Debra is a girl's name.
Pronunciation of the name Debra :
DEB-er-ah or DEB-rah
Number of syllables in the name Debra :
Two or three depending on pronunciation
Emotion evoked from the name Debra :
The baby name Debra evokes images of someone who is outgoing, optimistic, and loves to inspire those around her.
Alternative spellings for the name Debra :
Nicknames for the name Debra :
Popularity of the name Debra :
According to the Social Security Administration, Debra was a top 1,000 baby name for girls in the United States between 1934 and 1998. It was even a top 10 baby name during the 1950s and was most popular in 1956 when it ranked at number 4. It last ranked at number 986 in 1998.
Related names for the name Debra :
- Devora
- Debralee
- Derry
- Deva
- Deja
Great middle names for Debra and their meanings:
- Grace (God's grace)
- Mason (stone worker)
- Emily (rival)
- Abigail (father's joy)
- Rose (flower)
- Harper (harp player)
- Victoria (victory)
- Sadie (princess)
- Claire (bright, clear)
Famous people with the name Debra :
- Debra Messing (actress)
- Debra Winger (actress)
- Debra Jo Rupp (actress)
- Debra Gale Marshall (wrestler)
- Debra Renee Wilson (actress and comedian)
Debra in popular culture:
- Debra Morgan (character on the TV show “Dexter”)
- Debra Barone (character on the TV show “Everybody Loves Raymond”)
- Debra Dean (character on the TV show “EastEnders”)
- Debra Whitman (character in the Marvel Comics universe)
- “Debra” (song title by Beck)