Lyra

The name Lyra originates from the Greek word 'lyra', referring to the stringed musical instrument. In Greek mythology, the lyre was invented by Hermes and given to Apollo, who in turn gave it to Orpheus. Orpheus's lyre was said to be so beautiful that it charmed animals, trees, and even rocks. After his death, Zeus placed the lyre in the sky as a constellation, known as Lyra.

While the constellation has been recognized for centuries, Lyra as a given name is relatively modern. Its rise in popularity can be largely attributed to Philip Pullman's 'His Dark Materials' series, where the protagonist is named Lyra Belacqua. This literary association has given the name a whimsical and adventurous feel, leading to its increased use, particularly for girls, in recent decades.