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Martha

♀ Girl

Pronounced MAR-thah /ˈmɑːr.θə/High

Meaning: From Aramaic marta (מַרְתָּא), the feminine form of mar meaning 'lord' or 'master,' hence 'lady' or 'mistress of the house'; Martha is a New Testament figure, the sister of Mary and Lazarus, known for her hospitalityHigh

In 30 seconds: Martha is a sturdy, warm biblical name meaning 'mistress of the house.' With roots in the New Testament and a long history of distinguished American bearers including Martha Washington, it is a classic that is ripe for rediscovery.
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Origin HighAramaic
MeaningFrom Aramaic marta (מַרְתָּא), the feminine form of mar meaning 'lord' or 'master,' hence 'lady' or 'mistress of the house'; Martha is a New Testament figure, the sister of Mary and Lazarus, known for her hospitality
U.S. rank (2025)#713 ↘ Falling
2025 U.S. births393 girls (0.02% of U.S. girls)
Peak year1947
Total births (all-time)≈ 551,718

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 194718802025

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

History & Origin

Martha comes from the Aramaic marta, meaning 'lady.' In the New Testament, Martha of Bethany is a friend of Jesus, present at the raising of her brother Lazarus. The name entered English use through Christianity and was popular in England and Colonial America.

Martha was a top American name throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. Martha Washington, the first First Lady, is its most celebrated American bearer. The name declined through the 20th century but is experiencing a revival as vintage names return to favor alongside Hazel, Mabel, and Ruth.

Did you know? In the Gospel of Luke (10:38-42), Martha is gently rebuked by Jesus for being 'troubled about many things' while her sister Mary sits and listens. This brief story made Martha's name synonymous with industrious hospitality for two millennia — a legacy that feels more like a compliment than a critique today.
Overall data confidence 95%
Behind the Name — Martha — etymology and biblical historyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

MartaMarthe

Nicknames

MartyMattieMarti

Famous Bearers

  • ★Martha Washington (1731–1802)
    First First Lady of the United States, wife of George Washington.
  • ★Martha Stewart (1941–present)
    American businesswoman, television personality, and homemaking expert.

If you like Martha…

Mabel— shares the warm, solid vintage quality and the current revival of old-fashioned charm
Ruth— fellow short-syllable biblical women's name experiencing a strong modern comeback
Dorothy— parallel dignified mid-century name in the same vintage revival wave
Edith— shares the sturdy, dependable quality of classic women's names now back in fashion

Frequently Asked

What does the name Martha mean?

Martha means 'lady' or 'mistress of the house' from Aramaic marta. Martha of Bethany in the New Testament is known for her hospitality and active service.

How do you pronounce Martha?

Martha is pronounced MAR-thah /ˈmɑːr.θə/ — two syllables with stress on the first.

Is Martha coming back in style?

Yes, Martha is experiencing a notable revival as parents rediscover vintage biblical and mid-century names alongside Mabel, Ruth, and Edith.

Who is the most famous Martha?

Martha Washington, the first First Lady of the United States, is arguably the most celebrated American bearer. Martha of Bethany is the name's biblical origin.