Find out how popular the first name Arla has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Arla by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Arla is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 20 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Arla.

The history of the first name Arla

The given name Arla has its roots in the Old Norse language, originating from the Viking Age in Scandinavia, approximately between the 8th and 11th centuries AD. It is thought to be derived from the Old Norse word "ǫrly," which translates to "early or early rising." The name may have been bestowed upon individuals born at dawn or during the early hours of the day.

Variations of the name can be found in ancient Norse sagas and manuscripts, such as the Icelandic Sagas, which were written in the 13th and 14th centuries. These texts provide insights into the cultural significance and usage of the name during that era.

One of the earliest recorded bearers of the name Arla was a Viking woman mentioned in the Gesta Danorum, a 12th-century work by the Danish historian Saxo Grammaticus. She was described as a skilled warrior and strategist, renowned for her bravery and leadership during the Viking raids in the British Isles.

In the 14th century, an Icelandic woman named Arla Jonsdottir gained recognition for her expertise in traditional Icelandic folk medicine and herbal remedies. She was revered as a healer and is credited with preserving and passing down valuable knowledge about the medicinal properties of plants native to Iceland.

During the Renaissance period, Arla Björnsdotter, born in 1568 in Sweden, was a notable figure in the Swedish literary scene. She was a poet and writer who contributed to the development of Swedish literature and is celebrated for her lyrical works and satirical writings.

In the 19th century, Arla Rydberg, born in 1845 in Sweden, was a prominent educator and advocate for women's rights. She founded several schools for girls and played a pivotal role in promoting education and empowerment for women in Sweden.

Another notable figure was Arla Klinten, born in 1881 in Denmark, who was a pioneering artist and sculptor. She was part of the Danish avant-garde movement and is renowned for her innovative and unconventional sculptural works, which challenged traditional artistic norms of her time.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have borne the name Arla throughout history, showcasing its enduring presence across various cultures and time periods, particularly in Scandinavian regions.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Arla was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Arla, please contact us.

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