Mara means bitterness in Hebrew and ocean in Irish. This concise two-syllable name carries a clear, melodic tone that appeals to parents looking for a simple yet expressive choice. Parents exploring baby girl name meanings often appreciate names that balance brevity with cross-cultural depth. Because Mara has never climbed to the very top of national charts, it maintains an understated elegance. It offers a familiar feel to English speakers while retaining an international heritage that stands apart from more saturated favorites.
Meaning and Origin
Mara can be either a surname or a first name. In Irish, Mara translates to ocean.
In Hebrew, Mara is a female given name that comes from the word מָרָא (mara), meaning bitterness. That word is derived from the Hebrew term מַר (mar), meaning bitter. In modern times, the given name may also develop as a shortened form of Maria or Tamara. Because the name appears across these traditions, parents encounter both ocean and bitterness as its possible meanings.
Pronunciation
The most widespread pronunciation of Mara is MAH-ruh. In this two-syllable pronunciation, the first syllable rhymes with car, while the second syllable rhymes with the ending of sofa. Primary vocal stress lands firmly on the first syllable, creating a gentle and rhythmic finish.
Another recognized pronunciation is MARE-uh. Under this variation, the first syllable rhymes with care, while the final syllable rhymes with the unstressed ending of comma. The smooth vowel flow gives Mara an accessible cadence, sharing an open vowel finish with other feminine names such as Elena.
Popularity in the US
The name Mara first appears in the SSA data in 1892, and it is most often given to girls. In 1950, it held rank number 921 with 94 babies, before climbing to number 674 with 259 babies in 1980. Mara reached its peak rank of number 538 in 1990. At the start of the twenty-first century, it stood at number 606 with 418 babies in 2000, fell to number 868 with 308 babies in 2010, and rebounded to number 628 with 463 babies in 2020. By 2025, Mara ranked at number 589 with 499 babies, which brings the total to 24,038 US girls given the name in total since 1892.
| Year | US rank (girls) | Babies named Mara |
|---|---|---|
| 1950 | #921 | 94 |
| 1980 | #674 | 259 |
| 2000 | #606 | 418 |
| 2010 | #868 | 308 |
| 2020 | #628 | 463 |
| 2025 | #589 | 499 |
Source: US Social Security Administration baby name data (names given to at least 5 babies in a year).
Nicknames
Because Mara is already short, nicknames often highlight its first syllable or add a friendly diminutive ending. Common nicknames include:
- Mar: A brisk one-syllable short form suited for quick daily use.
- Mare: A casual option where the syllable rhymes with care.
- Mari: A two-syllable diminutive that gives the name an energetic sound.
- Mars: A spunky and contemporary short form with an adventurous tone.
- Ari: A gentle nickname formed from the final three letters of the name.
Famous People Named Mara
- Mara Wilson: An American writer and former child actress famous for her starring roles in family films including Matilda, Mrs. Doubtfire, and Miracle on 34th Street.
- Mara Brock Akil: An American television producer and screenwriter who created and produced prominent series such as Girlfriends, The Game, and Being Mary Jane.
- Mara Liasson: An American journalist and national political correspondent for National Public Radio, known for covering federal politics and presidential elections.
Middle and Sibling Names
Good middle names for Mara include Grace, Rose, Claire, Jane, Elizabeth, and Louise. Complementary sibling names include Leo, Wyatt, Lucas, Clara, Nina, and Iris.
FAQ
When did Mara first appear in official US tracking?
Mara first appeared in official United States figures in 1892. That year marked its earliest appearance in national annual tallies for girls, establishing its initial presence in federal baby name tracking.
How many American girls have received the name Mara in total?
A total of 24,038 US girls have been given the name Mara since 1892. This overall total demonstrates steady, enduring appreciation across generations while ensuring the name remains relatively uncommon across the country.
How does Mara’s peak rank compare with its latest standing?
Mara reached its peak rank at number 538 in 1990, compared to number 589 in 2025. In 1990, the name achieved its highest placement on national charts, while in 2025, 499 baby girls received the name.
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