What does Marta mean and where does it come from?
Marta is the Spanish and Italian form of the name Martha, which has biblical roots. The name Martha appears in the New Testament, where it refers to the sister of Lazarus. The Hebrew origin can be traced back to the word 'mara' meaning 'lady' or 'mistress'. Popular throughout Europe, Marta is apprec
Cultural significance
Marta has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of lady.
Peak popularity
Reached #384 in 1950 — currently #838 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Marta?
Marta works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Marta Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Marta Rose
Floral · soft ending
Marta Mae
Sweet · timeless
Marta Claire
French influence · crisp
Marta Jane
Literary · strong
Marta Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Marta right now?
Holding steady — currently #838 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #838 | 1,362 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #843 | 1,342 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #848 | 1,312 | ▲ up 1682 · +1858% births |
| 2020 | #2530 | 67 | ▲ up 592 · +26% births |
| 2015 | #3122 | 53 | ▼ down 396 · -18% births |
| 2010 | #2726 | 65 | ▼ down 654 · -28% births |
| 2005 | #2072 | 90 | ▼ down 246 · -4% births |
| 2000 | #1826 | 94 | ▼ down 588 · -32% births |
| 1995 | #1238 | 138 | ▼ down 212 · -22% births |
| 1990 | #1026 | 176 | ▼ down 128 · -1% births |
| 1985 | #898 | 177 | ▼ down 133 · -18% births |
| 1980 | #765 | 216 | ▼ down 109 · -7% births |
| 1975 | #656 | 232 | ▼ down 93 · -29% births |
| 1970 | #563 | 325 | ▼ down 57 · -8% births |
| 1965 | #506 | 352 | — |
The story of Marta
Marta has been a beloved American name for over 136 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1888. A total of 17,183 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1375 in 1905 to #838 in 2023. Marta is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Marta in 1950:
Marta by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5 | |
| 1890s | 6 | |
| 1900s | 54 | |
| 1910s | 206 | |
| 1920s | 336 | |
| 1930s | 560 | |
| 1940s | 1,213 | |
| 1950s ★ | 4,161 | |
| 1960s | 3,416 | |
| 1970s | 2,390 | |
| 1980s | 1,849 | |
| 1990s | 1,383 | |
| 2000s | 901 | |
| 2010s | 636 | |
| 2020s | 67 | |
What are good nicknames for Marta?
ENGLISH
MartiePatsyPattiPattiePatty
What names sound and feel like Marta?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Marta also consider these
How is Marta written in other languages?
Macedonian), მართა
Georgian
Common questions about the name Marta
What does the name Marta mean?
Marta means "Lady" — a name rooted in Spain 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 Marta?
Marta is currently ranked #838 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 Marta?
Marta originates from Spain tradition. Spain 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 Marta?
Marta is a two-syllable name pronounced M AA1 R T AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Marta a common or rare name?
Marta is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.