Cara

female

Origin

Latin origin from 'Cara', meaning 'beloved' or 'dear'. The name has been present in English-speaking contexts since medieval times, often used in literary and religious texts. While not of Indigenous Australian origin, the name has gained popularity in multicultural Australian society, often appreciated for its simplicity and melodious sound.

Meaning

Literally translates to 'beloved' or 'dear' in Latin. In Australian English contexts, it is often associated with affection, warmth, and endearment, making it a popular choice for familial and casual use.

Pronunciation

/ˈkɑːrə/ (Australian English) — Pronounced as 'KAR-uh', with emphasis on the first syllable, a clear 'ah' sound in the second syllable, and a soft 'r'.

Variants & Nicknames

Variants

  • Cara (original spelling)
  • Kara (alternative spelling)
  • Karah (less common variant)

Nicknames

  • Cari
  • Caz

Name Days

  • 26 July (Feast of Saints Anne and Joachim)
  • 15 February (Valentine's Day, associated with love, fitting the name's meaning)
  • No specific M01ori or Aboriginal cultural celebrations associated with this name.

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with cara:

  • Ella and Cara (popular sibling set)
  • Sophie and Cara (classic pairing)
  • Lily and Cara (harmonious floral theme)

Fun Facts

  • The name Cara gained popularity in Australia during the 1980s and 1990s, partly influenced by celebrities and characters in popular media.
  • In Australian popular culture, 'Cara' is occasionally used in branding and marketing for its soft and appealing sound.
  • The name appears in various literary works, such as in Sir Walter Scott's 'The Bride of Lammermoor', contributing to its romantic connotations.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name cara:

  • Affectionate
  • Warm-hearted
  • Creative
  • Sociable

Aesthetic Qualities

Simple yet elegant, the name has a balanced form with soft phonetic qualities making it visually and aurally appealing in Australian typography and branding.

Geographical Distribution

More common in urban centres such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with slightly higher usage among the younger population in cosmopolitan suburbs.

Numerological Significance

Name number 7, associated with introspection, spiritual awareness, and analytical thinking, often seen as auspicious for personal growth and introspective pursuits.

Astrological Connections

The name is often linked with the zodiac sign Scorpio or Cancer, reflecting themes of depth, emotion, and intuitive understanding, aligning with the name's gentle and affectionate connotations.

Historical Context

The name has ecclesiastical roots, appearing in religious texts and medieval European nobility. In contemporary Australia, it has been popularised by celebrities and fictional characters. Notably, actress Cara Delevingne, although British, has influenced its international perception.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name is easily adaptable across different languages, often retaining its pronunciation and spelling in various countries including the UK, USA, and Australia, though it may be rendered as 'Kara' in some contexts.

Famous People Named cara

  • Cara Delevingne (Model and Actress)
  • Cara Buckley (Australian-American journalist)
  • Cara Buono (American actress often referenced in Australian media)

Popularity in Australia

Year Count
2024 1
2017 3
2015 1
2014 3
1986 38