Alec vs Ira

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Ira

Boy #978 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"city of God (alternate interpretation)"

Origin: Hebrew

Cultural Roots

Jewish American British

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#978
Total SSA Count
230
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Popularity Comparison

Alec Rank #880
Ira Rank #978

Alec is more popular, ranked #880 vs #978 for Ira.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Alec ___

  • Alec James
  • Alec Thomas
  • Alec William
  • Alec Henry
  • Alec John
  • Alec Joseph

Ira ___

  • Ira James
  • Ira Michael
  • Ira David
  • Ira Thomas
  • Ira Elliott

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Alec

Claire Sophie Max Oliver Nora

If you choose Ira

Vera Saul Esther Leon Clara

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Alec or Ira more popular?

Alec is more popular, ranked #880 compared to Ira at #978 in the United States.

What do Alec and Ira mean?

Alec means "defender of men" (Greek origin). Ira means "city of God (alternate interpretation)" (Hebrew origin).

Are Alec and Ira boy or girl names?

Alec is primarily a boy name. Ira is primarily a boy name.

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