Girl Name · Italian/Irish Origin
Cara
Last reviewed: June 2026
Looking at Cara? On Baby Name Studio it appears in our Top 1000 popularity tier and carries the meaning "Beloved, friend", drawn from Italian/Irish naming roots. Common sibling-shortlist neighbor: Carra.
Names like Cara
- Carra — meaning, origin and popularity
- Cora — meaning, origin and popularity
- Ciara — meaning, origin and popularity
- Ciera — meaning, origin and popularity
- Cierra — meaning, origin and popularity
- Chiara — meaning, origin and popularity
- Ciarra — meaning, origin and popularity
- Cari — meaning, origin and popularity
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Frequently asked about Cara
What does the name Cara mean?
Cara means "Beloved, friend" and is of Italian/Irish origin.
What is the origin of Cara?
Cara originates in Italian/Irish naming tradition. Names of Italian/Irish origin often share recognizable sounds and cultural roots that shape how the name reads today.
How do you pronounce Cara?
Cara has 4 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable. Tap the pronunciation player on this page to hear it spoken aloud.
Is Cara a boy's or girl's name?
Cara is primarily used as a girl's name in US records, though usage can vary by region and era.
How popular is Cara in 2026?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Cara sits in the Top 1000 tier — distinctive but not obscure.
What names are similar to Cara?
Names that share Cara's sound and style include Carra, Cora, Ciara, Ciera, Cierra. Open the "Names like Cara" rail on this page for the full list.