Mara
“Derived from the Hebrew Marah, meaning 'bitter,' though in modern usage the name is embraced for its graceful, flowing sound rather than its original etymology. In Jewish tradition, Mara appears in the Bible; today it's chosen for its elegance and cross-cultural appeal, working seamlessly across English, Hebrew, and Scandinavian contexts.”
Mara is a name of Hebrew origin. Derived from the Hebrew Marah, meaning 'bitter,' though in modern usage the name is embraced for its graceful, flowing sound rather than its original etymology. In Jewish tradition, Mara appears in the Bible; today it's chosen for its elegance and cross-cultural appeal, working seamlessly across English, Hebrew, and Scandinavian contexts.
Popular in Jewish communities and increasingly common in contemporary American naming.
The name Mara has roots in the Hebrew language tradition. It derives from elements meaning “Derived from the Hebrew Marah, meaning 'bitter,' though in modern usage the name is embraced for its graceful, flowing sound rather than its original etymology”.
Cultural context: Popular in Jewish communities and increasingly common in contemporary American naming.
As a unisex's name, Mara carries the character of its Hebrew heritage while remaining a distinctive and uncommon choice for parents seeking something unique.
Mara Gay
PoliticsAmericanCNN and MSNBC political analyst and journalist
American journalist and political analyst serving as a CNN and MSNBC contributor, known for her incisive political commentary and reporting on civil rights and social justice issues.
Mara Hoffman
BusinessAmericanSustainable fashion designer and brand founder
American fashion designer and entrepreneur who founded her eponymous sustainable fashion brand, known for colorful knitwear and commitment to ethical manufacturing practices.
Mara Liasson
EntertainmentAmericanNPR correspondent and Fox News Sunday political analyst
American journalist and correspondent for NPR (National Public Radio), known for her reporting on politics and regular appearances on the news analysis program 'Fox News Sunday'.
Mara Wilson
EntertainmentAmericanStephanie Tanner on 'Full House', starring role in 'Matilda'
American actress best known for her role as Stephanie Tanner on the hit sitcom 'Full House' and her starring role in the film adaptation of 'Matilda'.
1987 – present
What does the name Mara mean?
Mara means "Derived from the Hebrew Marah, meaning 'bitter,' though in modern usage the name is embraced for its graceful, flowing sound rather than its original etymology. In Jewish tradition, Mara appears in the Bible; today it's chosen for its elegance and cross-cultural appeal, working seamlessly across English, Hebrew, and Scandinavian contexts.", and is of Hebrew origin.
Is Mara a boy or girl name?
Mara is a unisex name, used for both boys and girls.
What is the origin of the name Mara?
Mara is of Hebrew origin. Popular in Jewish communities and increasingly common in contemporary American naming.