Darla

♀ Girl

Pronounced DAR-lah /ˈdɑːr.lə/High

Meaning: English name derived from darling, an Old English term of endearment meaning beloved one or dear little one, from Old English deorlingHigh

In 30 seconds: Darla is a warm, retro English name meaning darling or beloved. With a vintage mid-century charm, it is friendly, approachable, and is enjoying a quiet comeback alongside other sweet old-fashioned names.

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Origin HighEnglish

MeaningEnglish name derived from darling, an Old English term of endearment meaning beloved one or dear little one, from Old English deorling

U.S. rank (2025)#941 ↗ Rising

2025 U.S. births275 girls (0.02% of U.S. girls)

Peak year1963

Total births (all-time)≈ 43,664

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Darla is an American elaboration of the word darling, coined in the early 20th century as a given name. The pattern of turning terms of endearment into names was common in American English during the 1920s and 1930s.

The name peaked in U.S. popularity during the 1950s and 1960s, closely associated with the wholesome mid-century aesthetic. It has begun returning to favor as parents seek charming retro alternatives.

Did you know? Darla was a regular character in the classic television series The Little Rascals (Our Gang), making the name familiar across multiple generations of American viewers from the 1930s onward.

Overall data confidence 87%

Behind the Name — Darla — etymology and usageU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

DarlaDarlia

Nicknames

DarDarlie

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Darla…

Donna— same mid-century American retro feel with a soft, warm sound

Darlene— closest etymological cousin sharing the darling root

Carla— same two-syllable vintage-retro sound with a confident feel

Darcy— shares the Dar- beginning and the vintage revival appeal

Frequently Asked

What does the name Darla mean?

Darla means darling or beloved, derived from the Old English word deorling. It was coined as a given name in the early 20th century.

How do you pronounce Darla?

It is said DAR-lah, with two syllables and stress on the first.

Is Darla an old-fashioned name?

Yes, Darla is considered a vintage name with a mid-century American feel, peaking in the 1950s and 1960s and now enjoying a gentle revival.

Is Darla a popular name today?

Darla is not among the top names today but has been appearing on the vintage revival radar alongside names like Donna and Darlene.