Gender: Girl
Origin: A variation of the name Marlene
Popularity: Not in the U.S. top 1,000 names
Marla Name Meaning and Origin
Marla is a variation of the name Marlene.
Marla is usually seen as a feminine name. It is a modern twist on the name Marlene, which combines Maria and Magdalena. The name Marla comes from German and Hebrew roots. In this context, Maria means "sea of bitterness" or "beloved," while Magdalena refers to a woman from the town of Magdala, meaning "tower" in Hebrew. As a standalone name, Marla has a gentle, melodic sound and often symbolizes strength and beauty. Although the name became more popular in English-speaking countries in the 20th century, it is still relatively rare. Its meanings and associations give it both a classic and modern charm.