Maya: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Maya mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Hebrew: Water
Greek: Mother; Greek goddess
Nepali: Love
Sanskrit: Illusion
Hindi: God's divine creative power
Hawaiian: Precious one
English: Month of May

Gender: Female

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Maya is pronounced my-ah

The name Maya is rich with historical and cultural significance. Deriving from multiple languages, its meanings range from "water" in Hebrew, "mother" in Greek, "love" in Nepali, to "illusion" in Sanskrit and Eastern Pantheism, among other meanings, highlighting its universal appeal and adaptability. This name's multifaceted origins reflect the beauty and complexity of the identities it represents.

In Greek mythology, Maya was the mother of Hermes, son of Zeus. The month of May was also named after Maya, as Maia/Maya was the incarnation of the earth mother and goddess of spring to the Romans.

Girl name variations

Family name origins & meanings

Spanish (from Basque): a habitational name from Maya del Baztán in Navarre province, from Basque Amaiur.

Catalan: variant spelling of Maià, a habitational name from Maià de Montcal and other places (see Maia).

Famous people with this first name

Maya Rudolph

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Garrison Keillor

Marlon Brando

Uma Thurman

Maya in Pop Culture

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

Popularity of the Name Maya

According to Social Security Administration data, the name Maya has been showing a steady presence in the top 100 names over the past years, reflecting its enduring popularity. While specific rankings can fluctuate yearly, Maya has been admired for its simplicity and cross-cultural appeal. The name Maya can be attributed to various sources, including the Latin word for "great" or as a variant of Maia, the Greek goddess of spring and fertility, which adds to its international charm.

Historical figures with the name Maya include Maya Angelou, an influential American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist, whose works such as I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings have left a significant mark on literature and society. In addition to Angelou, the name has been borne by notable individuals across various fields, underscoring its versatility and timeless appeal.

In entertainment, Maya has been a popular choice for fictional characters, appearing in films, television series, and books that span genres and audiences. From Maya the Bee, a beloved children's series, to more contemporary portrayals in series such as Pretty Little Liars and Grey's Anatomy, the name Maya remains a favorite for character names, demonstrating its ongoing relevance and appeal in popular culture.