Lara is a feminine given name of uncertain origin. Some sources suggest that it may have originated from the Latin word "lar" or "larem", which refers to an ancient Roman guardian spirit of the home. Others propose that Lara could be derived from the Slavic element "laryu", meaning "cheerful".
The name Lara gained popularity in the late 19th century, likely due to the poem " Lara" written by Alfred Tennyson and published in his collection "Idylls of the King". In this poem, Lara is a beautiful maiden who is wooed by various suitors but remains loyal to her true love. This romantic narrative may have contributed to the name's rising popularity.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures named Lara. One famous example is Soviet cosmonaut Larisa Tatinova, who was the first woman to perform a spacewalk in 1984. Additionally, Brazilian footballer Lara Fabian is known for her powerful vocals and hit songs like "Je t'aime" and "L'Aziza".
Despite its uncertain origin, the name Lara has become well-liked by many parents due to its elegant sound and mysterious etymology. It continues to be popular in various countries around the world, often appearing among the top baby names charts.
In conclusion, while the exact origins of the name Lara remain unclear, its meaning can be associated with guardian spirits or cheerfulness. With a rich history connected to literature and notable figures, Lara has become an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet beautiful feminine given name.
The name Lara has a fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a total of 34 babies given this name between 1918 and 1990. The years with the highest number of births were 1967, 1969, 1983, and 1990, each with 6 newborn Laras. There was also a slight peak in 1970 with 5 births. Despite these fluctuations, Lara remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents looking to give their child a name that stands out from the crowd.