Marla is a feminine given name that has gained popularity in several English-speaking countries. While it might seem like an uncommon name, its meaning and origin are fascinating aspects of this name. In this article, we will explore the origins, popularity, and significance of the Marla name.
What is the Meaning of the Name Marla?
The name Marla is derived from two different languages, Hebrew and German. In Hebrew, the name Marla means “bitter,” while in German, it is an abbreviation of the name Marlene or Maria. The name Marlene is a combination of the names Mary and Magdalene and means “rebellious woman.” On the other hand, Maria is a Latin name that translates to “sea of sorrow” or “bitter.”
Historical Significance of the Name Marla
The name Marla has been used for centuries, and it has a rich historical background. In ancient Hebrew culture, the name Marla was often associated with bitterness. According to the Bible, Naomi, the wife of Elimelech, changed her name to Mara after losing her husband and sons. Mara means “bitterness,” and it is similar in meaning to Marla.
In modern times, the name Marla gained popularity in the 1930s as an American name. It was likely influenced by the popularity of Marlene Dietrich, a famous German-American actress. Since then, the name has been used widely in English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
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Popularity of Marla Name
The name Marla is not a very common name in the United States, but it has been gaining popularity over the years. According to the Social Security Administration data, the name Marla was most popular in the 1960s and 1970s. However, it has since decreased in popularity, ranking 4,407th on the list of baby names in 2020.
Despite its decreasing popularity, the name Marla continues to be used by parents who want a unique and meaningful name for their child. In Canada and Australia, the name is more popular than in the United States.
Famous People with the Name Marla
Several famous people bear the name Marla, including athletes, musicians, and actresses. One of the most well-known Marlas is Marla Maples, an American actress, television personality, and former wife of Donald Trump. Another famous Marla is Marla Gibbs, an American actress best known for her role in The Jeffersons and 227.
In sports, Marla Runyan is an American track and field athlete who competed in the Paralympic Games. She is also known for being legally blind and running alongside a guide runner in races.
Marla Name Similar Names
If you are considering naming your child Marla, but you would like some other options to compare it with, here are some similar names to consider:
- Marlena
- Marley
- Mariah
- Marielle
- Marilyn
All these names share a similar meaning or origin to the name Marla.
Is Marla a Good Name for Your Baby?
The name Marla is a beautiful name with a rich history and meaning. It is a good choice for parents who want a unique and meaningful name for their child. However, before settling on a name, it is essential to consider how it will sound when spoken aloud, how it will look written down, and how easy it will be for others to pronounce.
Additionally, parents should also consider any potential nicknames that might arise from the name. For instance, Marla could be shortened to Mar or Marty, which may not be desirable for some parents.
Conclusion
The name Marla is a beautiful and unique name with an interesting history and meaning. It has been used for centuries, and it continues to be popular today in several English-speaking countries. Whether you are considering naming your child Marla or simply curious about this name’s origins and significance, we hope that this article has provided you with useful information.
FAQs
- What does the name Marla mean in Hebrew?
The name Marla means “bitter” in Hebrew.
- Is Marla a popular name?
No, Marla is not a very common name, but it has gained popularity in recent years.
- Who are some famous people named Marla?
Some famous people named Marla include Marla Maples, Marla Gibbs, and Marla Runyan.
- What are some similar names to Marla?
Similar names to Marla include Marlena, Marley, Mariah, Marielle, and Marilyn.
- Is Marla a good name for a baby?
Yes, Marla is a beautiful and meaningful name for a baby, but parents should consider how easy it will be for others to pronounce

We’re Emma Carole Paradis and Kimberly Carole, the owners and designers of Impeccable Nest, based in Bedford, New Hampshire. A mother-daughter team with a love of design. Originally from Manhattan Beach, California, now based in Bedford, New Hampshire, we bring a Southern California cool and New England tradition to our design. Not only do we work together…we also live together in a multi-generational home…and a home that they are known to design for others.