Mara is a distinctive girls' name in United States, ranking #589 in 2025 with 499 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2021 with 568 births ranking #540. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 27.0%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 3,221 girls born was named Mara. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Mara is a compact, striking name most often linked to the Hebrew idea of bitterness. It feels serious, elegant, and quietly powerful.
The name appears in the Bible and has also been used independently in several cultures, which helps explain its broad modern appeal. Its simplicity and depth make it especially memorable.