Cara
Cara first appears in US records in 1882. It peaked in 1985, when 1,465 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 168.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Cara popular?
Declining Cara is given less often than it was a decade ago, well below its 1985 peak.
| 2020s | 1,273 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 3,830 | |
| 2000s | 6,034 | |
| 1990s | 9,844 | |
| 1980s | 13,277 | |
| 1970s | 10,413 | |
| 1960s | 5,779 | |
| 1950s | 1,291 | |
| 1940s | 492 | |
| 1930s | 305 | |
| 1920s | 281 | |
| 1910s | 219 | |
| 1900s | 113 | |
| 1890s | 91 | |
| 1880s | 63 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Cara mean?
From the Italian and Latin cara, feminine of caro/carus 'dear, beloved'. A direct term of endearment pressed into use as a given name.
Names like Cara
italian names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Cara
Popular italian names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Cara
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Cara mean?
Cara means Beloved, dear. From the Italian and Latin cara, feminine of caro/carus 'dear, beloved'. A direct term of endearment pressed into use as a given name.
What is the origin of the name Cara?
Cara is of italian origin.
How do you pronounce Cara?
Cara is pronounced “KAH-ruh.”
Is Cara a boy or a girl name?
Cara is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Cara a popular name right now?
Cara is given less often than it was a decade ago, well below its 1985 peak.
How popular is the name Cara?
In 2025, Cara ranked #1326 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Cara most popular?
Cara was most popular in 1985, when about 1,465 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Cara?
Names similar to Cara include Serena, Alessia, Francesca, Elisa, Capri.
What names go well with Cara?
italian names that pair well with Cara include Luca, Gianna, Aria, Aurora, Beatrice.