What does Kara mean and where does it come from?
The name Kara has multiple origins, most notably Italian and English. In Italian, it is derived from 'cara', meaning 'dear' or 'beloved'. Kara has become widely used in English-speaking countries as well. It gained popularity as a given name in the 20th century and has several variations, including
Cultural significance
Kara has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Italy-speaking communities, where it reflects values of dear.
Peak popularity
Reached #95 in 1984 — currently #939 in the US.
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Related Reading
Italy-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kara?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kara?
Kara works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kara Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kara Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kara Claire
French influence · crisp
Kara Jane
Literary · strong
Kara Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kara right now?
Falling — down 69 spots — currently #939 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #939 | 283 | ▼ down 69 · -11% births |
| 2022 | #870 | 319 | ▼ down 106 · -14% births |
| 2021 | #764 | 373 | ▼ down 94 · -12% births |
| 2020 | #670 | 422 | ▼ down 163 · -32% births |
| 2015 | #507 | 621 | ▼ down 215 · -44% births |
| 2010 | #292 | 1,113 | ▼ down 24 · -9% births |
| 2005 | #268 | 1,227 | ▼ down 76 · -26% births |
| 2000 | #192 | 1,648 | ▼ down 40 · -23% births |
| 1995 | #152 | 2,148 | ▼ down 42 · -29% births |
| 1990 | #110 | 3,036 | ▼ down 12 · +8% births |
| 1985 | #98 | 2,811 | ▲ up 29 · +15% births |
| 1980 | #127 | 2,445 | ▼ down 9 · +4% births |
| 1975 | #118 | 2,358 | ▲ up 91 · +57% births |
| 1970 | #209 | 1,502 | ▲ up 110 · +88% births |
| 1965 | #319 | 797 | — |
The story of Kara
Kara has been a beloved American name for over 128 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1896. Its peak popularity was #95 in 1984. More than 100,525 babies have been named Kara since 1896. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3237 in 1935 to #939 in 2023. Kara is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kara in 1984:
Kara by decade
Kara peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 19 | |
| 1930s | 81 | |
| 1940s | 222 | |
| 1950s | 754 | |
| 1960s | 7,072 | |
| 1970s | 19,833 | |
| 1980s ★ | 27,627 | |
| 1990s | 23,537 | |
| 2000s | 13,487 | |
| 2010s | 7,466 | |
| 2020s | 422 | |
What are good nicknames for Kara?
What names sound and feel like Kara?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kara also consider these
Common questions about the name Kara
What does the name Kara mean?
Kara means "Dear" — a name rooted in Italy tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Kara?
Kara is currently ranked #939 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Kara?
Kara originates from Italy tradition. Italy names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Kara?
Kara is a two-syllable name pronounced K EH1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kara a common or rare name?
Kara is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.