The meaning and origin of the name Maria (2023)

in this article

  • What does Mary mean?
  • Origin
  • Akin
  • Pronunciation
  • Slogovi
  • Length/letter
  • Variations/spelling of names
  • How popular is the name Marija?
  • Where is the most requested name?
  • Middle names that go with Maria
  • Famous people named Marija
  • The name Maria in popular culture
  • Names that sound like Maria
  • Names of siblings related to Mary
  • Nicknames for Maria
  • Frequently asked questions
  • Sources/References

It comes fromHebrewime Maryam/Mariam, Maria inLatinmeans "beloved", "sea of ​​bitterness" and "rebel". It is also considered a variant of the name Mary, the mother of Jesus in some cultures. Alternative definitions suggest "desirable child" and "mistress or mermaid". Maria toowomanvariant fora roman name"Marius" is also popular as a male middle namePoland,Italy, iGermany. The biblical form of the name comes from the Latin Miriam, which has the Hebrew iEgyptianorigin.

What does Mary mean?

The meaning of the Latin Mariain is "drop of the sea". When mar, meaning "drop", or mará, meaning "bitterness", is combined with yama, meaning "ocean", an "ocean of bitterness" is formed. The meaning of Mary is also "star of the sea", derived from the Hebrew "maor" meaning "star/light", while the Hebrew "meri" means "desired child" or "rebel". Maria means "beloved", which is derived from the Egyptian "mry". Derived from the Hebrew "róm", meaning height, Mary can refer to "exalted".

Origin

Maria is found in many languages ​​and is primarily influenced by LatinChristianity.Historically, Maria is the feminine form of the Roman name Marius. After the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire, Mary became the Latinized form of the name Miriam, the mother of Jesus. The Syriac-Aramaic name Maryam is derived from the biblical Hebrew name Miriam. The Latin name Maria and the Hebrew name Maria are combined into one name. Maria is also sometimes used as a male (middle) name in many Central European countries and countries with a strong Catholic tradition, where it meant the patroness of the Virgin Mary. Other Marys who appear in the New Testament are Mary Magdalene and Mary Salome, disciples of Jesus, and Mary Bethany, sister of Lazarus. The name Merjem is also attributedKoran, but the Arabic reflects the Christian name as MÄrya or MÄryÄ as in MÄrya al-Qibiá¹iyya, a Coptic Egyptian woman who was a devoted servant of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Maria is widely used in Spanish and English speaking countries.

Akin

Woman

Pronunciation

  • Muh-ri-ya
  • Mah-ri-ah
  • Marh-ree-ah

Slogovi

3 styles

Length/letter

5 words

Variations/spelling of names

Variants of the name Marija indicate diminutives modified to convey a lesser degree of the root meaning. Here are some other spellings for Maria that might be alternative in other languages:

To doOrigin
MareeLatin
MarialenaLatin
MarialindaLatin
MarijaFrench language
MariettaFrench language
Marikadanish
BerryDutch
MARIJABulgarian
MaraHebrew
MarraLatin
MoleculesIrish
MaliaPolynesian
marineGerman
MaleaEnglish
BerryEstonian
MyraRussian

How popular is the name Marija?

Ranking of baby names Maria has consistently remained in the top 10 from 1991 to 2016, most popular among HispanicsAmericansBecause of the exaggerated sound and simple spelling, Maria's popularity index only rose in the 1940s, reaching number 31 between 1973-1975. In 1975, 7,531 babies were named Maria. After that, his popularity dropped for a while until he ranked 109th in 2015, 115th in 2018 and 104th in 2019.Administration for Social Insurance, Maria is ranked as the 109th most popular girl name in the US as of 2020, with 2,460 babies born with the name.

Interest in Maria - worldwide

Search trends for the name Maria have seen a consistent search rate of over 60 over the past seven years, reaching 100 in September 2017. The lowest frequency was recorded at 57 in January 2021 and June 2021.

Interest in Maria - USA

Over the past ten years, Maria name search trends have seen a constant search rate of over 20, peaking at 100 in September 2017. The rate dropped to a low of just 24 in October 2018.

The popularity of the name Marija

URL:https://www.ssa.gov/cgi-bin/babyname.cgi

Where is the most requested name?

Maria Search Trends - worldwide

Search trends show that Maria has had the most searches in Spain over the last ten years. Countries likePortugal,Brazil,Peru, followed immediately by Argentina. Like most peoplespanishNames for girls that end in the letter "a", Maria has a feminine and elegant touch that makes it a favorite in Spain.

Mary's Search Trends - United States

California is the subregion of the United States where the name Maria has seen the most search interest over the past ten years. Followed by Florida, New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts, which are in the top 5 American cities.

Middle names that go with Maria

A middle name can distinguish a person from others with the same first and last name. Here are some great double names with Mary to consider.

LydiaRose
PatriciaLinnea
LoreleiZoe
SoniaWaist
FloraCamille
NatalieVivien
SimoneNoelle
KateCatherine
SmartBliss
larki can dance

Famous people named Marija

Parents who like to call their offspring celebrities can come up with unique names that will dominate the limelight. Here is a list of famous people and characters named Maria who can make your child a star:

Celebrity nameOccupation/known for
Mary BelloAmerican actress
Maria BrinkAmerican singer, songwriter
Good MaryBrazilian tennis player
Mary EveAmerican poet
Marija KanellisAmerican wrestler
Marija KočetkovaRuska balletanka
Maria "Meryl" StreepAmerican actress
Marija MontessoriItalian doctor
Maria SalinasAmerican television journalist
Maria SharapovaRussian tennis player
Maria ShriverAmerican writer, journalist
Maria von TrappAmerican singer born in Austria
Mary FoxA character in the video game and television series "Castlevania".
Maria RobotnikA character in the video game series "Sonic, the Hedgehog".

The name Maria in popular culture

Maria is an established name in film and popular culture. Here are some of the legendary characters named Maria that never get old:

LikKnown for
MARIJAHe stars in Ricky Martin's iconic songMARIJA.
Maria KendallA favorite fictional character from a British television showHolby by.
Mary FoxA powerful video game characterCastlevaniaseries.
Maria RobotnikVideo game character from the game "Sonic the Hedgehog".
Maria von TrappThe main character of the cult filmThe sound of music.
Maria JacksonA popular British children's science fiction characterSarah Jane.

Similar names and surnames

Baby names like Mario can convey a significant connection to the original name. Surnames for Maria are a form of social speech that emphasizes the importance of the name. Here are some other names for Maria that can reflect the character traits we want our children to have.

Other baby namesAppropriate family names
AnnaWatsone
AngelinaRoberts
HelenBenson
RebeccaA miller
ElsaPotter
AngelicaHawkins
RosaFletcher
AndreaCarter
AmyBailey
AdrianaSagittarius
AleksandraReeves

Names that sound like Maria

Names that rhyme with Mary have a similar lyrical tone and sound. A classic name like Mario can be molded into a familiar pattern to impress new parents.

MoriaMario
MarcusSharia
MarcusMarshall
AzariahMargot
AriaCube
MarshallMarta
MariamAwning
Thin narrower than two wiresMarlena
Maruskamarjoram
DaisyOur journey

Sibling names can complement each other and celebrate the love between them. Here are some of the most suitable sister names that suit Mary:

Sibling Names for MarySibling Names for Mary
DaisyJose
MaudePedro
coralMiguel
JulyManuel
GaiaFernando
OpalLuis
ElizaJuan
ManonIsabel
LillaJames
Adapatricians
IreneMichael

Nicknames for Maria

Nicknamesthese are special pronouns that represent our sincere feelings towards our child. Here are some nicknames for the name Maria that can be given to a child in private situations:

AriaMaree
RiImitation
MarieAria
more moreMary Poppins
MarikaMamie
Arammockery
Mary BelloMurie
SailorMary too
URi

Frequently asked questions

What does Maria mean in Greek?

The name Maria probably means "rebel" in Greek. However, the name goes back to the Egyptian period, where it means "my beloved".

What does the name Maria mean spiritually?

The name Mary has a huge spiritual meaning for Christians, especially Catholics. Mary is associated with the Virgin Mary, which makes her especially spiritual.

Are Mary and Mary the same?

Marija and Marija are related. Maria is the English version of Maria, which is basically the Latin form of the Greek name Mariam. So, Mary and Maria are the same.

Parents who want to honor their Latin roots or pay homage to a culture rooted in tradition can choose a Christian name like Maria, which has held its meaning for generations and continues to do so because of its strong biblical roots.

Sources/References

Social Insurance Administration: https://www.ssa.gov/cgi-bin/babyname.cgi
Popularity of the name Maria in the United States: https://trends.google.com/trends/explore?date=2011-01-01%202021-10-02&geo=US&q=Maria
Popularity of the name Maria worldwide: https://trends.google.com/trends/explore?date=2011-01-01%202021-10-02&q=Maria
Name Maria Interest in USA: https://trends.google.com/trends/explore?date=2011-01-01%202021-10-02&geo=US&q=Maria
Name Maria Curiosities from around the world: https://trends.google.com/trends/explore?date=2011-01-01%202021-08-05&q=Maria

FAQs

What is the meaning and origin of the name Maria? ›

Maria is a feminine name of Latin origin that is rich with meanings for baby to enjoy. A Latin form of Mary, this name can refer to the Virgin Mary, who's considered one of the most sacred figures in the Christian and Muslim faiths.

What is the full meaning of Maria? ›

Maria is a historically feminine name of Latin origin. It can be translated to either mean “of the sea,” “bitter,” “beloved,” or “rebellious.” In some cultures, it's also considered to be a variation for the name Mary.

What does the Bible name and meaning Maria mean? ›

Most commonly, the name is associated with Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ in Christian theology. Maria is said to mean “star of the sea,” “rebellion,” “bitter sea,” and “drop of the sea.” Maria is also associated with the meaning “beloved” and “wished for child”.

Is Maria a Mexican name? ›

Maria is a traditionally feminine name with roots in Latin languages (Spanish, Italian) as well as German. It also appears in Scandinavian languages; although Maria is not originally Norse, the name appears in several sagas and is the name of King Harald Sigurdsson's daughter.

What is the spiritual meaning of the name Marie? ›

The name Marie also has Hebrew origins being derived from Miryam, which is believed to come from the Egyptian element "myr," meaning "beloved." Miryam is also the biblical name of Moses's sister from the book of Exodus and is believed to mean "rebellious" and "wished-for child."

What is the origin of the name Miriam? ›

Miriam is a girl's name of Hebrew origin. As it means "wished-for child," Miriam offers you a heartfelt way to express your loving devotion to your new arrival. Miriam is an old form of Mary, allowing you to call baby after a family member from previous generations.

What is the Greek meaning of Maria? ›

Greek, Latin. An English form of the Latin name Mariam or Miriam. It was the name of the mother of Christ. The Greek origin of the name possibly means "rebellious", but probably the name goes even further back to Ancient Egyptian origins where mr meant "love" or "my beloved".

What is the Hebrew name for Maria? ›

Maria (Greek: Μαρία) is a form of the name used in the New Testament, standing alongside Mariam (Μαριάμ). It reflects the Syro-Aramaic name Maryam, which is in turn derived from the Biblical Hebrew name Miriam.

What is the personality of the name Maria? ›

Maria is a name that suggests you give up what you want so other people can have what they need. Like a six-sided cube, your personality is steady and balanced. You are very creative and artistically oriented but also willing to take action to accomplish your goals.

What does Jesus Maria mean? ›

Jesus Christ! (an expression of surprise) Literal translation "Jesus Mary!"

Is Maria a good name? ›

In conclusion, Maria is a classic and timeless name that has a strong and powerful meaning. It's been a consistently popular name for girls throughout history, particularly in Europe and Latin America. Maria is perfect for a girl who is strong, intelligent, and devoted.

Who was Maria in the Bible? ›

Mary was a first-century Jewish woman of Nazareth, the wife of Joseph and the mother of Jesus. She is a central figure of Christianity, venerated under various titles such as virgin or queen, many of them mentioned in the Litany of Loreto.

What Maria means in Spanish? ›

feminine noun. Mary. Santa María, madre de Dios Holy Mary, mother of God.

What does Maria mean in Japanese? ›

真理恵, "truth, blessing"

What does Maria mean in Spanish slang? ›

1. ( slang) (drug) weed (colloquial)

What does wished for child mean? ›

adjective. greatly desired. synonyms: longed-for, yearned-for wanted.

What flower is associated with the name Marie? ›

Symbols for Maria include the rosa mystica, the iris, and the lily.

Does Marie mean bitter? ›

French Baby Names Meaning:

In French Baby Names the meaning of the name Marie is: Bitter.

What tribe was Miriam from? ›

Miriam was the daughter of Amram and Jochebed; she was the sister of Aaron and Moses, the leader of the Israelites in ancient Egypt.

Why is Miriam important in the Bible? ›

Miriam is best known for helping to deliver Moses at the Nile River and leading the Hebrew women in singing, dancing, and playing drums after crossing the Red Sea. Later, she and her brother Aaron challenge the actions and authority of Moses. She understands leadership to embrace diverse voices, female and male.

What does Miriam mean in Egypt? ›

🔥Miriam. Hebrew or Egyptian. "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"

What is the symbol of Maria? ›

The Auspice Maria symbol consists of intertwined letters A and M. It is a monogram of the Virgin Mary. As it translates to under the protection of Mary, it is found inscribed in many places. The Auspice Maria is commonly seen in religious art, churches, and jewelry.

What does Maria mean Russian? ›

The name Masha is of Russian origin and is a diminutive form of the name Maria. It is commonly used in Russia and other Slavic countries as a nickname for girls named Maria. The name Maria has various meanings depending on the language and culture, but it generally means “bitter” or “beloved.”

Is the name Maria beautiful? ›

(Maria is a very beautiful name.) Also Romansh. There are multiple variations of the name Maria such as Mariya, Marya, Marie, Marina etc which enter the Top 1000 most common names globally. In Spanish speaking places, sometimes they use boy names for girls like Jesús and José as a second name.

Is Maria a common German name? ›

The most common and traditional German names are biblical, such as Johann/Hans (John), Georg/Jörg (George), Jakob (Jacob), Anna, Maria and Christina.

What does Maria mean in Arabic? ›

Maria is a Muslim Girl name that means “The star of the sea, kind of bird, Bitter, sea of bitterness”. It is one of the finest Muslim names that parents love to give as a lifetime identity to their Girl.

Is Maria a common Russian name? ›

Maria is a very common Russian name.

Does Maria mean wished for child? ›

The name Maria has multiple meanings depending on its origins and cultures. It is derived from the Hebrew name Miriam, which means “bitterness” or “sea of sorrow.” In Latin, it is a form of the name Mary, which means “wished-for child” or “rebelliousness.”

How famous is the name Maria? ›

As a highly popular girls' name in all Spanish-speaking countries, this saintly Latin variation of Mary retains a timeless beauty. Through the centuries, Maria remains one of the most widely-used girl names starting with M.

How old was Maria when Jesus died? ›

How old was Mary when Jesus died? According to Christianity.com, Mary was 46 to 49 years old when Jesus died.

Is the Virgin Mary called Maria? ›

In Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus, Joseph and Mary, Mary is called Maryam. The Greek translation of the Old Testament calls her Mariam, whereas with New Testament Greek she is Maria. The Latin uses the same expression: Maria. The name is used not only for Mary, the mother of Jesus.

Who is Maria mother to Jesus? ›

Mary, also called St. Mary or the Virgin Mary, (flourished beginning of the Christian era), the mother of Jesus, venerated in the Christian church since the apostolic age and a favourite subject in Western art, music, and literature.

What is a nickname for Maria? ›

Here are some endearing nicknames for Maria that can be considered: Mia. Mariel. Marial.

Is Maria a popular Greek name? ›

According to a survey conducted by the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT), the most popular male and female names in Greece are Georgios and Maria. According to ELSTAT, around 8.3% of men in Greece are named Georgios, with the same percentile (8.3%) of women named Maria.

Is there a demon named Maria? ›

This article is about the demon named "Maria". For the character in Megami Ibunroku Persona: Ikū no Tō Hen that's also "The Destroyer", see Maria (Megami Ibunroku Persona: Ikū no Tō Hen). Maria is a demon in the series.

How many times is Maria mentioned in the Bible? ›

She is mentioned by name twelve times in the Gospel of Luke, five times in the Gospel of Matthew, once in the Gospel of Mark, and once in the Book of Acts.

Is there a goddess named Maria? ›

In Slavic mythology, Ognyena Maria (literally "Fiery Mary") is a fire goddess who is the sister and assistant of the thunder god, Perun. Ognyena Maria originates as a conflation of the figures of Margaret the Virgin and the Virgin Mary, both regarded as sisters of Saint Elias.

What does Maria mean in vocabulary? ›

/ˈmɑriə/ Definitions of maria. a dark region of considerable extent on the surface of the moon. synonyms: mare. type of: part, region.

What is the male version of Maria? ›

Marion, Marius, or Mario may be used as masculine equivalents.

How did Maria originate? ›

How did Maria originate? Maria originated when asteroids punctured the lunar surface, letting magma bleed out, forming extensive lava flows. How did the moon form? A Mars sized object collided with Earth.

How do you say Maria in Chinese? ›

玛丽亚 : Maria (name)... : Mǎ lì yà | Definition | Mandarin Chinese Pinyin English Dictionary | Yabla Chinese.

What type of word is Maria? ›

Maria is a noun - Word Type.

What does Di Maria mean in Italian? ›

Italian; Spanish (De María): metronymic from the female personal name Maria (Spanish María) or a nickname for a devotee of the Virgin Mary with the preposition de 'of'.

What does Anna Maria mean in Italian? ›

Annamaria Origin and Meaning

The name Annamaria is girl's name meaning "grace + drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved". A pretty smoosh name predominantly used by Italian Catholics.

What does Maria mean in Hebrew? ›

The name Maria is of Latin origin and means "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved." It is also thought to be of Hebrew origin and means "bitter, rebellious" and derives from the Hebrew name Maryam/Mariam.

Is Maria Greek or Italian? ›

Maria (given name)
Origin
Word/nameGreek, Hebrew
MeaningRebellion
Other names
Variant form(s)Mariah, Marie, Marija, Mariya
2 more rows

Is Maria a Bible name? ›

This name may have come from a root meaning “beloved,” or from a word meaning “bitter” or “rebellious,” a reference to the biblical Miriam's life as a slave in Egypt. Origin: In Latin editions of the Bible, the name Miriam (or Maryam, an Aramaic variant) was rendered as Maria.

What nationality was Maria? ›

Mary was a first-century Jewish woman of Nazareth, the wife of Joseph and the mother of Jesus.

Is Maria a pretty name? ›

The name Maria has a classic and elegant feel to it and it's perfect for a girl who is destined for greatness. In conclusion, Maria is a classic and timeless name that has a strong and powerful meaning. It's been a consistently popular name for girls throughout history, particularly in Europe and Latin America.

References

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