Girl Name · Germanic Origin
Carla
Last reviewed: June 2026
Looking at Carla? On Baby Name Studio it appears in our Top 500 popularity tier and carries the meaning "Free man", drawn from Germanic naming roots. Common sibling-shortlist neighbor: Charla.
Names like Carla
- Charla — meaning, origin and popularity
- Carly — meaning, origin and popularity
- Carrol — meaning, origin and popularity
- Creola — meaning, origin and popularity
- Carlie — meaning, origin and popularity
- Carley — meaning, origin and popularity
- Carlo — meaning, origin and popularity
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Frequently asked about Carla
What does the name Carla mean?
Carla means "Free man" and is of Germanic origin.
What is the origin of Carla?
Carla originates in Germanic naming tradition. Names of Germanic origin often share recognizable sounds and cultural roots that shape how the name reads today.
How do you pronounce Carla?
Carla has 5 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable. Tap the pronunciation player on this page to hear it spoken aloud.
Is Carla a boy's or girl's name?
Carla is primarily used as a girl's name in US records, though usage can vary by region and era.
How popular is Carla in 2026?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Carla sits in the Top 500 tier — familiar without being overly common.
What names are similar to Carla?
Names that share Carla's sound and style include Charla, Carly, Carrol, Creola, Carlie. Open the "Names like Carla" rail on this page for the full list.