Marta

Marta is a feminine given name used across many cultures. It derives from the Aramaic name Marta, meaning lady or mistress, and entered Christian usage through the Greek form Martha in the New Testament. In Latin and later European languages, it became Marta in Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Polish, among others. The name is common in Europe and the Americas, often chosen for its classic, simple sound.

In Christian tradition, Saint Martha is a figure in the Gospel of John, identified as the sister of Mary and Lazarus. She is venerated as a model of hospitality and service, and is celebrated in Catholic and Orthodox calendars.

Notable bearers include the Brazilian footballer Marta Vieira da Silva, commonly known simply as Marta, a forward who has received international recognition for her play; the Argentine conceptual artist Marta Minujín; and Polish actress Marta Żmuda-Trzebiatowska.

The given name has several variants and is closely related to the English name Martha. In contemporary usage, Marta remains a popular choice in many countries, and it can serve as a formal given name or a familiar form of longer names.