US Popularity Rank: 1819

Origin: German

Meaning: Free man

Carla is a feminine name of German and Italian origins. This name derives from the male "Carl," of the German "Charles," meaning "free man." Borrowing etymology from a male-given name has always been the norm among romantic languages though. In old Latin and Italian, female names typically emerged from classic male titles, using an added "a" to soften the sound. This linguistic phenomenon makes Carla pleasing to the ear, much like the countless other feminine names we know and love today. Free-thinking baby Carla borrowed an exciting definition and will no doubt use it to make the world her own.