Find out how popular the first name Machala has been for the last 13 years (from 1994 to 2006) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Machala by gender

Based on the last 13 years of data, Machala is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2006, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Machala.

The history of the first name Machala

Machala is a feminine given name of uncertain origin, though it is believed to have roots in various Slavic languages. One theory suggests that it may be derived from the Macedonian word "machka," meaning "cat," possibly referring to a person with cat-like qualities such as grace or agility. Another possibility is that it stems from the Old Slavic word "makh," which translates to "wave" or "swing," perhaps alluding to a graceful or rhythmic movement.

The earliest recorded use of the name Machala dates back to the 16th century in Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in regions with significant Slavic influence. However, it remained relatively obscure until more recent times, when it gained popularity in countries like Poland, Czech Republic, and Slovakia.

Throughout history, there have been a few notable individuals who bore the name Machala. One such figure was Machala Nazar (1920-1945), a Ukrainian partisan who fought against Nazi occupation during World War II. She was renowned for her bravery and unwavering commitment to the resistance movement.

Another prominent Machala was Machala Rajah (1932-2018), an Indian classical dancer and choreographer who was instrumental in popularizing the Bharatanatyam dance form. She received numerous accolades for her contributions to the arts, including the prestigious Padma Bhushan award from the Indian government.

In the realm of literature, Machala Bogdanowicz (1956-present) is a Polish poet and translator known for her evocative and introspective works. Her poetry collections have garnered critical acclaim and have been translated into multiple languages.

Machala Vaughan (1982-present) is a British actress and singer who has appeared in various television shows and stage productions. She is particularly recognized for her roles in the musicals "Mamma Mia!" and "Wicked."

Lastly, Machala Rayner (1974-present) is a Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist who founded a successful renewable energy company. She has been recognized for her efforts in promoting sustainable development and environmental conservation.

While the name Machala may have humble origins, it has been borne by individuals from diverse backgrounds and fields, each leaving their mark on history through their accomplishments and contributions to society.

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 Machala was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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