لارا

Lara

girlLatin / RussianMuslim

Lara is a Muslim girl name of Latin / Russian origin, meaning “Generally explained as cheerful or protective”.

MeaningGenerally explained as cheerful or protective
GenderGirl
OriginLatin / Russian
Written asلارا
PronunciationLAH-rah
TraditionMuslim
Used inLebanon, Jordan, Syria, Turkey

Meaning and origin of Lara

Lara began as a European name. Russians know it as a shortened Larisa, while Italians and Spaniards link it with Latin roots. There is no Arabic word behind it, but it has caught on strongly in Turkey and across Syria, Lebanon and Jordan, with many Muslim parents drawn to its clean, easy sound. It fits comfortably among Arabic names that start with La-, such as Lana and Lamar.

Is Lara a Muslim name?

Lara is not Arabic, but Muslim families in the Levant and Turkey use it widely and its meaning raises no conflict with Islam; Lamar, Lamia or Rana offer an Arabic name with a similar feel.

How popular is Lara?

It is common in Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Turkey, and in Europe.

Gifts with the name Lara

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Spellings and variants of Lara

Larah

Names similar to Lara

More Muslim girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Lara mean?

Lara means 'Generally explained as cheerful or protective'. It is of Latin / Russian origin.

Is Lara a Muslim name?

Lara is not Arabic, but Muslim families in the Levant and Turkey use it widely and its meaning raises no conflict with Islam; Lamar, Lamia or Rana offer an Arabic name with a similar feel.

How do you pronounce Lara?

Lara is pronounced LAH-rah.

Is Lara a boy or girl name?

Lara is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.