Maria

What does the baby name Maria mean? Learn about what Maria means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Maria - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Maria: M-A-R-I-A, is a 5-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Maria: mə-REE-ə; mah REE ah; mar EYE ah
Meaning of Maria: Bitter or sea of bitterness, of the sea or bitter, rebellious woman, sea of bitterness, beloved.
Origin of Maria: The name 'Maria' has ancient roots, with its earliest known use dating back to the time of the Roman Empire. It is derived from the Hebrew name Miriam, which means 'wished-for child' or 'bitter'. In the New Testament, 'Maria' is the Greek equivalent of Miriam, and it gained prominence through the biblical figure of Mary, the mother of Jesus.; American Names; Argentine Names; Armenian Names; Austrian Names; Basotho Names; Biblical Names; Canadian Names; Chilean Names; Christian Names; Costa Rican Names; Czech Names; Dutch Names; English Names; Estonian Names; French Names; German Names; Greek Names; Hebrew Names; Hungarian Names; Italian Names; Japanese Names; Latin Names; Peruvian Names; Polish Names; Portuguese Names; Puerto Rican Names; Romanian Names; Russian Names; Scandinavian Names; Slovak Names; Spanish Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Maria: Maga; Maida; Maieli; Maija; Maika; Maion; Mair; Maire; Mal; Malana; Mallie; Mame; Mamie; Manette; Manka; Manna; Manon; Manya; Marabel; Maraya; Marda; Mardi; Maree; Marella; Marelle; Maresa; Maret; Maretta; Marfa; Mari; Mariah; Marial; Mariam; Marian; Mariana; Marianne; Marica; Marice; Maridel; Marie; Marieke; Mariel; Mariella; Marielle; Marien; Marij; Marija; Marijke; Marika; Marilee; Marilla; Marilyn; Marin; Marinha; Marion; Maris; Mariska; Marita; Maritsa; Marja; Marjaka; Marjatta; Marla; Marley; Marlo; Maroula; Marsia; Maruca; Maruchka; Maruka; Maruska; Mary; Marya; Maryal; Marybel; Marybelle; Marysa; Mashka; Maura; Maureen; Maurise; Maurizia; Mavra; Mearr; Mere; Mergen; Meri; Meria; Meridel; Merika; Merrie; Merry; Mhaire; Mhairi; Mieke; Mieze; Mija; Mimi; Mina; Minette; Miriam; Mitzi; Moira; Moire; Molara; Mollie; Molly; Mora; Morag; Moria; Moya; Moyra; Muire; Muriel; Polly
Popularity of Maria: Throughout history, the name 'Maria' has experienced fluctuations in popularity. In the early Christian era, it became increasingly popular due to its association with the revered biblical figure. During the Middle Ages, it was one of the most common names for girls in Europe, reflecting its enduring appeal.

In more recent times, the popularity of the name 'Maria' has seen some variations. It experienced a notable spike in usage in the 20th century, particularly in Hispanic cultures. This can be attributed to the strong influence of the Virgin Mary in Catholicism, where 'Maria' is a popular given name. However, in some regions, the name has seen a decline in popularity as parents seek more unique or modern names for their children.; Maria currently has 3187 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked girl's names. The name Nicole is slightly more popular than Maria.

Etymology of Maria

The etymology of the name 'Maria' is rooted in multiple languages. As mentioned earlier, it originated from the Hebrew name Miriam, which means 'wished-for child' or 'bitter'. The Greek adaptation of Miriam gave rise to the name 'Maria', and it eventually spread across various cultures and languages.

Cultural Significance of Maria

The name 'Maria' holds significant cultural importance in various regions around the world. In many Hispanic cultures, 'Maria' is a name deeply associated with devotion to the Virgin Mary. It is often given to girls to honor the revered figure and to instill a sense of faith and spirituality.

In addition, the name 'Maria' has been celebrated in literature, art, and music. Countless poems, songs, and novels have been dedicated to this timeless name, further cementing its cultural significance.