Maia

MY-uh
Meaning: The name Maia means 'great' or 'mother' in Greek, and is often associated with the goddess of spring and growth.
Gender
Girl
Origin
Greek, Latin, Spanish
Popularity Rank
#459 (girls)
#917 (overall)

Popularity Summary

Maia has seen a steady rise in popularity in recent years, particularly in the United States and the UK, making it a trendy choice for new parents.

Why Parents Choose Maia

Parents often choose the name Maia for its melodic sound, deep roots in mythology, and positive associations with growth and nature. It's a name that feels both classic and modern.

History & Cultural Significance

Historically, Maia has been a popular name in various cultures. In ancient Greece, Maia was revered as a nature goddess, representing the beauty of spring. The name has also been used in different forms across Europe, gaining popularity in the 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries.

Maia has rich cultural significance in Greek mythology as the name of one of the Pleiades and the mother of Hermes, symbolizing nurturing and fertility.

Notable People Named Maia

  • Maia Wilkins
  • Maia Mitchell
  • Maia Szalavitz
  • Maia McLeod
  • Maia Hightower

Name Variations

Maya Maïa Maja Maya

Related Names

Amaya Mina Mara Mira

Similar Sounding Names

Names with Similar Feel

Sibling Name Ideas

Pop Culture References

  • Maia in the animated series 'The Magic School Bus'.
  • Maia in the novel 'The Orphan Master's Son' by Adam Johnson.
  • Maia in the children's book series 'Maia and the Butterfly'.