What does Orla mean and where does it come from?
Orla is an ancient Irish name comprised of the words 'or' (gold) and 'flath' (princess or noblewoman). It has deep roots in Irish history and mythology, often associated with royalty. The name is quite popular in Ireland and has also gained some recognition in the United States and the UK. Notable f
Cultural significance
Orla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of meaning 'golden princess'..
Peak popularity
Reached #1317 in 1892 — currently #647 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Orla?
Orla works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Orla Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Orla Rose
Floral · soft ending
Orla Claire
French influence · crisp
Orla Jane
Literary · strong
Orla Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Orla right now?
Holding steady — currently #647 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #647 | 1,553 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #652 | 1,533 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #657 | 1,503 | ▲ up 3658 · +4748% births |
| 2020 | #4315 | 31 | ▲ up 263 · +3% births |
| 2015 | #4578 | 30 | ▲ up 1404 · +36% births |
| 2010 | #5982 | 22 | ▲ up 1525 · +47% births |
| 2005 | #7507 | 15 | ▼ down 1798 · -21% births |
| 2000 | #5709 | 19 | ▼ down 2167 · +171% births |
| 1940 | #3542 | 7 | ▼ down 166 · -12% births |
| 1930 | #3376 | 8 | ▲ up 318 |
| 1925 | #3694 | 8 | ▼ down 1508 · -53% births |
| 1920 | #2186 | 17 | ▲ up 1634 · +183% births |
| 1915 | #3820 | 6 | ▼ down 1379 · +20% births |
| 1910 | #2441 | 5 | — |
The story of Orla
Orla has been a beloved American name for over 132 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1892. With 1,158 total births recorded, Orla remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2441 in 1910 to #647 in 2023. Orla is used for both genders: 75% female and 25% male.
Names that peaked alongside Orla in 1892:
Orla by decade
Orla peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 38 | |
| 1890s | 51 | |
| 1900s | 11 | |
| 1910s | 133 | |
| 1920s | 214 | |
| 1930s | 82 | |
| 1940s | 48 | |
| 1950s | 20 | |
| 1960s | 22 | |
| 1990s | 56 | |
| 2000s | 179 | |
| 2010s ★ | 273 | |
| 2020s | 31 | |
💎With 1,158 total births, Orla is an uncommon but established name.
What names sound and feel like Orla?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Orla also consider these
Common questions about the name Orla
What does the name Orla mean?
Orla means "Meaning 'golden princess'." — a name rooted in Ireland 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 Orla?
Orla is currently ranked #647 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 Orla?
Orla originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland 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 Orla?
Orla is a two-syllable name pronounced AO1 R L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Orla more of a girl or boy name?
Orla is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.