The name Carla is of Italian origin and has a rich history and meaning behind it. It is derived from the male name Carl, which is itself derived from the Germanic element "Karl", meaning "strong" or "free man". The female form of this name, Carla, emerged in Italy during the late Middle Ages.
In Italian, Carla means "strength" or "freedom". This powerful and independent connotation has contributed to the popularity of the name over time. It is often used as a feminine counterpart to the male names Carl and Charles.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Carla. One famous example is Carla Bruni, an Italian-French singer-songwriter who became First Lady of France after marrying then-President Nicolas Sarkozy in 2008. Another notable figure is Carlauren Fitzpatrick, a British social media influencer known for her travel vlogs.
The name Carla has also been used extensively in literature and popular culture. It appears as the title character in "Carla's shield", a short story by Italian author Italo Calvino. In television, Carla Espinosa is a beloved character from the sitcom "Scrubs".
Today, Carla remains a popular choice among parents looking for a strong and unique name for their daughter. Its timeless meaning and rich history make it a compelling option for those seeking a name with depth and character.
The name Carla has seen significant fluctuations in popularity over the past century, with a clear peak in the mid-20th century. Between 1946 and 1962, there were consistently more than 5,000 births per year, peaking at nearly 6,000 births annually between 1958 and 1961. However, popularity has significantly declined since the 1970s, with fewer than 300 births per year occurring between 2013 and 2023.