What does Perla mean and where does it come from?
The name Perla is of Italian and Spanish origin, derived from the word for 'pearl', which is a symbol of purity and beauty in various cultures. It first gained popularity in the 19th century in Italy and has since spread to Spanish-speaking countries, particularly Mexico. The name signifies somethin
Cultural significance
Perla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Italy-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pearl.
Peak popularity
Reached #281 in 2003 — currently #862 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Italy-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Perla?
Perla works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Perla Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Perla Rose
Floral · soft ending
Perla Mae
Sweet · timeless
Perla Claire
French influence · crisp
Perla Jane
Literary · strong
Perla Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Perla right now?
Holding steady — currently #862 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #862 | 1,338 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #867 | 1,318 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #872 | 1,288 | ▲ up 136 · +419% births |
| 2020 | #1008 | 248 | ▼ down 362 · -44% births |
| 2015 | #646 | 443 | ▼ down 40 · -9% births |
| 2010 | #606 | 485 | ▼ down 241 · -44% births |
| 2005 | #365 | 865 | ▲ up 153 · +70% births |
| 2000 | #518 | 510 | ▼ down 28 · +2% births |
| 1995 | #490 | 502 | ▲ up 138 · +41% births |
| 1990 | #628 | 356 | ▲ up 179 · +75% births |
| 1985 | #807 | 204 | ▲ up 98 · +22% births |
| 1980 | #905 | 167 | ▲ up 487 · +120% births |
| 1975 | #1392 | 76 | ▲ up 937 · +130% births |
| 1970 | #2329 | 33 | ▲ up 386 · +57% births |
| 1965 | #2715 | 21 | — |
The story of Perla
Perla entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. A total of 19,911 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5495 in 1920 to #862 in 2023. Perla is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Perla in 2003:
Perla by decade
Perla peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 7 | |
| 1920s | 49 | |
| 1930s | 51 | |
| 1940s | 63 | |
| 1950s | 150 | |
| 1960s | 279 | |
| 1970s | 776 | |
| 1980s | 1,996 | |
| 1990s | 4,609 | |
| 2000s ★ | 7,481 | |
| 2010s | 4,202 | |
| 2020s | 248 | |
What are good nicknames for Perla?
What names sound and feel like Perla?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Perla also consider these
How is Perla written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Perla
What does the name Perla mean?
Perla means "pearl" — 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 Perla?
Perla is currently ranked #862 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 Perla?
Perla 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 Perla?
Perla is a two-syllable name pronounced P ER1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Perla a common or rare name?
Perla is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.