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Updated August 7, 2024

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Girl name origins & meanings

What does Mia mean and stand for?

Meaning:

  • Italian: Mine
  • Hebrew: Bitter
  • Scandinavian: Star of the sea, beloved

Gender: Female

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Mia is pronounced mee-uh

Mia means "ocean goddess" or "queen"; it can also mean "guardian of justice". It is derived from many names, most commonly from the name Maria, but is also derived from names like Amelia (and its various spellings), and Maya.

Girl name variations

How Popular Is The Name Mia

Famous people with this first name

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Mia in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

  • Mia Thermopolis from The Princess Diaries - A teenager who discovers she is the heir to the throne of Genovia.
  • Mia Wallace from Pulp Fiction - The mysterious wife of mob boss Marsellus Wallace.
  • Mia Lewis from Californication - A troubled and rebellious teenage girl with artistic aspirations.
  • Mia Hall from If I Stay - A talented cellist facing life-changing decisions after a tragic accident.
  • Mia Toretto from Fast & Furious - The sister of Dominic Toretto and a skilled street racer.

Popularity of the Name Mia

According to data from the Social Security Administration, the name Mia has shown remarkable popularity in the United States. Mia has consistently been a top-ranking name, maintaining its position in the top 100 names since at least the year 2000. It has been a favorite choice for parents across different decades, reflecting its enduring appeal.

Mia is partially derived from Maria but has now surpassed Maria in popularity. It first started to be used in the 1960s, and gained in popularity throughout the 1990s and 2000s.

Historically, the name Mia has been associated with several notable individuals, including actresses Mia Farrow and Mia Wasikowska. Fictional characters named Mia have appeared in various media, such as Mia Thermopolis from The Princess Diaries and Mia Hall from If I Stay, contributing to the name's cultural significance.

Where Is the Name Mia Popular?

This name is most popular across certain states in the U.S., including those highlighted on the map below.

Nicknames for Mia

These shortened names can make great nicknames for your baby.

  • Mimi
  • Mims
  • Mi
  • Mya
  • M
  • Mimo
  • Milla

Mia Pairs Well With These Middle Names

Looking for a middle name that fits perfectly? Consider these!

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