Marla is a unique and intriguing feminine given name of Hebrew origin. Its meaning is derived from the Hebrew word "marlah," which translates to "song" or "tune." This melodious etymology gives Marla an enchanting and harmonious quality, suggesting that those who bear this name may possess a certain musicality or creativity.
The name Marla first appeared in the United States during the late 19th century but did not gain significant popularity until the mid-20th century. It peaked in popularity during the 1960s and 1970s, reaching its highest rank of 438 in 1970. Although it has since fallen off the Social Security Administration's list of the most popular baby names, Marla remains a distinctive and appealing choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their daughters.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have carried the name Marla. Most famously, American actress Marla Sokoloff is known for her roles in television shows such as "The Practice" and "Over There," while Canadian-born model Marla Maples gained notoriety as the second wife of Donald Trump from 1993 to 1999.
In literature, Marla Mason appears as the protagonist in a series of urban fantasy novels written by T.A. Pratt, further contributing to the name's unique and memorable associations. Overall, while not extensively documented in historical records or popular culture, the name Marla possesses an intriguing Hebrew origin and has been carried by notable individuals throughout history, making it a captivating choice for those seeking a distinctive and meaningful feminine given name.
"The name Marla has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the past century, with its peak occurring during the late 1940s to early 1950s when it consistently had over 400 births per year, reaching an all-time high of 957 births in 1953. Since then, its usage has dramatically decreased, with only 86 births reported in 2023."