“The name Marla may be derived from the combination of 'Mary' and 'Lydia', meaning 'sea of bitterness' or 'rebellious'.”
English origin · Unisex name
♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls
#911US 2023
1.3kBirths / yr
→Stable
38.4kAll-time births
📅 Since 191200.09% of births at peak
How to pronounce Marla
MAH·rluh
/ˈmɑ.rlə/ · stress on MAH · 2 syllables
“The name Marla may be derived from the combination of 'Mary' and 'Lydia', meaning 'sea of bitterness' or 'rebellious'.”
English origin · Unisex name
What does Marla mean and where does it come from?
Marla gained popularity in the mid-20th century, especially in the United States, possibly due to its appearance in popular culture. It was first recorded in use during the 1920s. Famous figures include Marla Maples, an American actress and television personality. The name can often be associated wi
Cultural significance
Marla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the name marla may be derived from the combination of 'mary' and 'lydia', meaning 'sea of bitterness' or 'rebellious'..
Holding steady — currently #911 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1920–2023#911 · Top 0.67%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#911
1,289
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022
#916
1,269
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021
#921
1,239
▲ up 1612 · +1749% births
2020
#2533
67
▲ up 146 · +2% births
2015
#2679
66
▼ down 419 · -22% births
2010
#2260
85
▼ down 151 · -3% births
2005
#2109
88
▼ down 546 · -23% births
2000
#1563
114
▼ down 361 · -20% births
1995
#1202
143
▼ down 398 · -43% births
1990
#804
250
▼ down 77 · +5% births
1985
#727
237
▼ down 232 · -43% births
1980
#495
417
▼ down 130 · -27% births
1975
#365
569
▼ down 92 · -48% births
1970
#273
1,090
▲ up 23 · +21% births
1965
#296
901
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Marla
1955Rank #193
1,724
#1395
↗Rising
1920 - 202324 years
The story of Marla
Marla entered American naming records in 1912 and has been in use for over 112 years. A total of 38,396 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5240 in 1920 to #911 in 2023. Marla is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Marla means "The name Marla may be derived from the combination of 'Mary' and 'Lydia', meaning 'sea of bitterness' or 'rebellious'." — a name rooted in English 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 Marla?
Marla is currently ranked #911 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Marla?
Marla originates from English tradition. English 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 Marla?
Marla is a two-syllable name pronounced M AA1 R L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Marla a common or rare name?
Marla is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Marla
For a sister
Marla & Kimberly♡
Marla & Jane♡
Marla & Troy♡
Marla & Andy♡
For a brother
Marla & James♡
Marla & Steven♡
Marla & Jane♡
Marla & Troy♡
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