Mara: Name Day, Name Meaning & More

Name days are cultural traditions that celebrate the saint or figure after whom a person is named, often serving as an important alternative or complement to birthdays. The name Mara features a rich history and a versatile origin, holding roots that range significantly from Hebrew scripture to Baltic mythology. Its prevalent mood is often perceived as strong, elegant, and defined by a quiet sense of confidence and composure. As a testament to its widespread use across continents, Mara is celebrated on various dates globally, including March 25th in Latvia. This concise and powerful name successfully offers both ancient depth and strong modern appeal.

Name Day: Dates by Country

Mara's name day is celebrated on March 25 in Latvia and August 15 in Bulgaria and the USA.

The Story Behind This Name

Mara is a well-established name globally, particularly favored in regions across Southern and Eastern Europe, and maintaining steady recognition across the Americas. In the USA, Mara functions as a concise and strong alternative to longer names, frequently appearing in use without reaching top-tier ranking status. Historically, the name’s usage is noted in various distinct linguistic traditions, suggesting parallel development in several different cultures over time. The name has experienced periodic surges in popularity correlating with broader naming trends that favor short, vowel-heavy feminine names. It retains notable popularity today in countries such as Italy, Germany, and throughout much of the Slavic world.

Name origin and meaning

The name Mara possesses multiple, distinct origins depending on the cultural context observing it. In the traditional Hebrew sense, the name famously means 'bitter' or 'sorrow,' often associated with personal transformation or hardship. Conversely, the name is utilized as a common shortened form of longer appellations, such as Tamara, particularly within Slavic linguistic communities. Mara also appears as a traditional deity name in Baltic mythology, where she is a powerful feminine figure associated with earth, fate, and protection. These diverse roots contribute to the name’s simple yet profound character across the world.

Name Identity: Gender Classification

Mara is overwhelmingly recognized worldwide as a feminine given name across nearly all cultures where it is used. It is predominantly classified as female throughout North America, Europe, and Latin America. In regions utilizing Slavic and Baltic languages, the name functions exclusively as an appellation for a girl. While theoretically possible to be used as a surname or a very rare male nickname, its standard usage is strictly female globally. Therefore, Mara maintains a strong identity as a traditional female designation.

The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality

The name Mara conveys a sophisticated and slightly enigmatic mood to the listener. It possesses a strong yet inherently elegant tone, managing to sound both ancient and distinctly modern simultaneously. Mara often evokes an image of quiet confidence, focused determination, and subtle grace. The two-syllable structure gives it a concise, impactful feel, avoiding overly frilly or soft connotations. It strikes an appealing balance between traditional reverence and contemporary boldness, making it a highly compelling choice.

Mirror Magic: Mara & Aram

Some names hold a hidden surprise—when reversed, they reveal another beautiful and valid name. This playful symmetry adds a unique charm, making the pair feel like secret reflections of each other. Whether by chance or design, these reversible names create a fascinating linguistic connection between two identities.

See also: Aram: Name Day, Name Meaning & More

Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Mara

Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.

Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name

Destiny number: 6 – The Nurturer.
Keywords: Responsibility, family, love, service, harmony, compassion.
Positive Traits: Caring, nurturing, protective, supportive, artistic.
Challenges: Can be overbearing, self-sacrificing, or struggle with boundaries.
Life Path Meaning: A role centered around caregiving, relationships, and artistic pursuits.

Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights

First name number: 8 - The Achiever.
Traits: Ambitious, goal-oriented, authoritative, financially focused.
Strengths: Strong leadership, good at managing money, disciplined.
Challenges: Can be materialistic, dominant, or overly focused on success.

The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You

The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Venus - Love, Beauty, Harmony.
Venus rules love, beauty, and relationships, making names influenced by this planet exude charm, grace, and artistic sensibilities. Those with Venus-ruled names are often aesthetically inclined, diplomatic, and naturally attractive in their demeanor. They appreciate harmony in their surroundings and relationships, often seeking balance and fairness in all aspects of life.

Name days: Name Mara

This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.

Country	Month	Day	Name days
Latvia	March	25	Mara, Marina, Marita, Marite
Bulgaria	August	15	Despina, Mara, Maria, Marian, Mariana, Mario, Mariyan, Masha, Mika, Mira, Panaiot
USA	August	15	Madonna, Malia, Mara, Maria, Mariah, Marian, Mariana, Maribel, Marie, Marisa, Marissa, Maritza, Marla, Mary, Maryann, Mimi, Miriam, Mitzy, Molly, Napoleon, Polly

Name days: Similar names (Mara)

Here you’ll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.

Country	Month	Day	Name days
Slovakia	January	26	Tamara
Lithuania	February	2	Kantvydas, Rytis, Valdemaras, Vandene
Latvia	March	8	Dagmara, Marga, Margita
Latvia	March	22	Dziedra, Giedra, Ralfs, Tamara
USA	March	26	Dudley, Geomar, Hunt, Hunter, Huntley, Xiomar, Xiomara
USA	April	27	Laverne, Sam, Samantha, Samara, Sami, Sammy, Samuel, Samuela, Ulises, Ulysses, Vern, Verna, Verne, Vernon, Zita
Russia	April	28	Tamara
Bulgaria	May	1	Ermelina, Ermen, Ermena, Ermenko, Maya, Tamara
France	May	1	Brieuc, Florine, Jérémie, Tamara
Greece	May	1	Isidora, Tamara
Spain	May	1	Andeoro, Berta, Oroncio, Paciencia, Tamar, Tamara, Teodardo
Ukraine	May	1	Jeremiah, Jeremy, Tamara
Russia	May	2	Tamara
Czechia	June	3	Tamara
Poland	June	3	Cecyliusz, Ferdynand, Klotylda, Konstantyn, Laurencjusz, Laurentyn, Laurentyna, Leszek, Paula, Tamara, Wawrzyniec
USA	August	14	Anahi, Athena, Tamara, Tamia, Tammie, Tammy, Tara, Taryn, Terra
Poland	August	16	Alfons, Alfonsyna, Ambroży, Domarad, Domarat, Joachim, Joachima, Roch
USA	October	4	Berenice, Bernice, Bonita, Bonnie, Bunny, Damara, Damaris, Fannie, Fanny, Frances, Francesca, Francesco, Francine, Francis, Francisco, Frank, Frankie
Lithuania	December	12	Dagmara, Gilmintas, Vaingede
Poland	December	12	Adelajda, Aleksander, Dagmara, Paramon, Suliwoj
Slovakia	December	20	Dagmara
Hungary	December	29	Tamara, Tamás

Mara Conclusion and Name Summary

Mara is a beautifully concise female name defined by its varied global popularity and compelling historical background across multiple cultures. Its origins provide dual interpretations, lending depth and complexity to its simple two-syllable structure, while its tone suggests quiet strength and innate elegance. Used almost universally as a feminine designation, Mara holds consistent appeal among parents seeking a strong yet classic name. The tradition of celebrating Mara’s name day, such as on August 15th in the USA, further highlights its enduring cultural and social relevance. Overall, Mara stands out globally as a strong, versatile, and historically layered choice.

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