What does Lara mean and where does it come from?
The name Lara has Slavic origins, particularly popular in Russia as a diminutive of 'Larissa'. In Italy, it is a short form of names like 'Elaria' and carries the meaning of being cheerful and protective. The name gained international popularity due to the character Lara Antipova in Boris Pasternak'
Cultural significance
Lara has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Russia-speaking communities, where it reflects values of cheerful, protection.
Peak popularity
Reached #222 in 1969 — currently #731 in the US.
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Related Reading
Russia-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Lara?
Lara works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Lara Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Lara Rose
Floral · soft ending
Lara Claire
French influence · crisp
Lara Jane
Literary · strong
Lara Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Lara right now?
Declining — down 37 spots — currently #731 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #731 | 384 | ▼ down 37 · -9% births |
| 2022 | #694 | 424 | ▼ down 12 |
| 2021 | #682 | 426 | ▲ up 23 · +8% births |
| 2020 | #705 | 394 | ▲ up 107 · +15% births |
| 2015 | #812 | 344 | ▲ up 68 · +14% births |
| 2010 | #880 | 301 | ▼ down 69 · -6% births |
| 2005 | #811 | 319 | ▲ up 37 · +22% births |
| 2000 | #848 | 261 | ▼ down 75 |
| 1995 | #773 | 260 | ▼ down 235 · -41% births |
| 1990 | #538 | 442 | ▼ down 89 · -9% births |
| 1985 | #449 | 487 | ▼ down 55 · -16% births |
| 1980 | #394 | 577 | ▼ down 50 · -9% births |
| 1975 | #344 | 637 | ▼ down 109 · -52% births |
| 1970 | #235 | 1,332 | ▲ up 1137 · +1949% births |
| 1965 | #1372 | 65 | — |
The story of Lara
Lara has been a beloved American name for over 137 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1887. A total of 28,158 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1646 in 1900 to #731 in 2023. Lara is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Lara in 1969:
Lara by decade
Lara peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5 | |
| 1890s | 30 | |
| 1900s | 41 | |
| 1910s | 120 | |
| 1920s | 189 | |
| 1930s | 138 | |
| 1940s | 121 | |
| 1950s | 241 | |
| 1960s | 4,207 | |
| 1970s ★ | 7,615 | |
| 1980s | 5,412 | |
| 1990s | 3,049 | |
| 2000s | 3,216 | |
| 2010s | 3,380 | |
| 2020s | 394 | |
What are good nicknames for Lara?
What names sound and feel like Lara?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Lara also consider these
Common questions about the name Lara
What does the name Lara mean?
Lara means "Cheerful, protection" — a name rooted in Russia 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 Lara?
Lara is currently ranked #731 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 Lara?
Lara originates from Russia tradition. Russia 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 Lara?
Lara is a two-syllable name pronounced L AA1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lara more of a girl or boy name?
Lara is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.