Lyra

LYE-rah

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The name Lyra means “lyre, constellation.” It comes from the English language tradition.

Lyra is the name of a constellation representing Orpheus's lyre in Greek mythology, containing the brilliant star Vega. Philip Pullman chose it for his heroine Lyra Belacqua in His Dark Materials, giving the name literary depth alongside its astronomical beauty. It has risen dramatically in popularity, combining celestial wonder with musical harmony.

Wiktionary and Wikipedia agree Lyra comes from the Greek and Latin word for 'lyre' and is the name of the constellation representing the instrument. Wikipedia says the name is usually given in reference to the constellation and 'the Greek myth that inspired its naming,' though it doesn't name Orpheus specifically, so that detail given elsewhere isn't confirmed here.

Per Wikipedia, the name has recently risen in usage due to the character Lyra Belacqua in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy and its television and film adaptations; the retrieved source doesn't mention the star Vega specifically, so that detail isn't repeated here.

• Lyra Belacqua (protagonist of Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials)
• Lyra McKee (Northern Irish journalist)

Sibling names that share Lyra's rhythm and register without echoing it too closely.