Mara

What does the baby name Mara mean? Learn about what Mara means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Mara - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Mara: M-A-R-A, is a 4-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Mara: MAH rah
Meaning of Mara: Eternally beautiful, bitter sorrow, of the sea or bitter, bitter.
Origin of Mara: The name 'Mara' has an intriguing origin that can be traced back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated from Hebrew and Aramaic languages. In Hebrew, 'Mara' means 'bitter', while in Aramaic, it signifies 'grief' or 'sorrow'. These meanings suggest a sense of melancholy or hardship associated with the name.; American Names; Biblical Names; English Names; Greek Names; Hebrew Names; Hindi Names; Hungarian Names; Indian Names; Italian Names; Jewish Names; Latvian Names; Mythological Names; Pet Names; Russian Names; Sanskrit Names; Scandinavian Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Mara: Amara; Amarantha; Amarinda; Damara; Damaress; Damaris; Dameryss; Mahra; Marah; Maralina; Mari; Maris; Marra
Popularity of Mara: Over time, the popularity of the name 'Mara' has seen fluctuations, with notable spikes in usage during certain periods. In recent years, the name has gained attention and has become more widely used. This could be attributed to the trend of parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their children.; Mara currently has 183 likes, and is in the top 5% of liked girl's names. The name Lorna is slightly more popular than Mara.

Earliest Known Use of Mara

The earliest known use of the name 'Mara' can be found in the Old Testament of the Bible. In the Book of Ruth, one of the central characters is named Naomi, who, after experiencing great tragedy and loss, changes her name to 'Mara' to reflect her sorrowful state. This biblical reference showcases the enduring presence of the name throughout history.

Etymology of Mara

The linguistic roots of the name 'Mara' can be traced to the Hebrew and Aramaic languages. In Hebrew, the name is derived from the root word 'marar', which means 'to be bitter'. In Aramaic, it is derived from the word 'mar', which means 'grief' or 'sorrow'. These etymological connections highlight the inherent depth and emotion associated with the name.

Cultural Significance of Mara

In certain cultural contexts, the name 'Mara' holds particular significance. In some African cultures, 'Mara' is a name given to girls born during the rainy season, symbolizing the abundance and fertility associated with this time of year. In this context, the name carries a positive connotation, representing growth and prosperity.