The given name Arlette has its origins in the French language and culture. It is a diminutive form of the Germanic name Arla, which itself is derived from the root name Arlo, meaning "little bear" in Old Norse. The name Arlette gained popularity in France during the Middle Ages.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Arlette can be found in the 11th century, when it was borne by the Norman woman Arlette of Falaise. She was the mother of William the Conqueror, the first Norman king of England. Arlette's relationship with Robert the Magnificent, Duke of Normandy, was considered scandalous at the time due to her humble origins as the daughter of a tanner.

In the 12th century, Arlette de Burgogne was a French noblewoman and the wife of Hugues III, Duke of Burgundy. She played a significant role in the political affairs of the Duchy of Burgundy during her time.

Arlette Laguiller, born in 1940, is a French political activist and former revolutionary worker-communist who ran for the French presidency several times between 1974 and 2007, representing the Workers' Struggle party.

Arlette Grussing, born in 1937, is a Danish former swimmer who won a bronze medal in the 400-meter freestyle event at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome.

Arlette Ben Hamo, born in 1933, is an Israeli actress and singer of Tunisian descent. She has appeared in numerous films and television series since the 1950s and is considered a pioneer of Israeli cinema.

While the name Arlette has its roots in French culture, it has been adopted and used in various other countries and cultures over time, albeit with varying degrees of popularity.