Maya

Maya is a multicultural name meaning illusion, water, or grace.

Maya: Discover the Meaning, Origin, and Popularity of This Timeless Name

MAYA is a widely used name with roots in several cultures, often associated with ideas like illusion, water, and grace. This page explores its meaning, origin, gender usage, popularity trends, and related names.

Gender Female
Origin Sanskrit, Hebrew
Meaning illusion, water
Popularity Common

Meaning of the Name Maya

The name Maya is intertwined with multiple meanings, drawing from various cultures and languages. In Sanskrit, it signifies illusion or magic, while in Hebrew, it means water. Across the globe, it is also interpreted as grace or mother, and in Greek, it is related to the name Maia, meaning good mother. The diversity in its meanings makes it a name of deep cultural richness.

Origin of the Name Maya

The name Maya has a rich tapestry of origins. Among its most notable roots is the Sanskrit origin, where it implies 'illusion.' It finds significance in Hebrew, where it means 'water.' Furthermore, it can be linked to Greek mythology, as Maia, the mother of Hermes. The widespread use across various cultures from India to Israel to Greece underscores its cross-cultural appeal.

Maya Name Tattoo Design Collection in Artistic Styles

Watercolor style tattoo concept of the name maya formed by colorful flowing brushstroke letters on a white background

Maya Watercolor Ink Splash Name Tattoo Concept

A vibrant watercolor tattoo concept where the name "maya" is formed from flowing, multicolor brushstroke lettering with splashes and drips on a white background.

Surrealist tattoo design of the name maya as melting chrome letters on a white background

Maya Surrealism Melting Script Tattoo Design

A surreal tattoo design where the name "maya" is formed from melting, chrome-like letters with dreamlike distortions and floating abstract forms on white.

Trash Polka style tattoo art of the name maya with distressed black lettering and red splashes on white

Maya Trash Polka Contrast Name Tattoo Artwork

A high-contrast Trash Polka-inspired tattoo artwork where the name "maya" appears in distressed black lettering with red splashes, geometric fragments, and bold graphic textures.

Dimensional black and gray tattoo design of the name maya with raised 3D lettering on white

Maya AI-Original-Style Dimensional Ink Name Tattoo

A dimensional black and gray tattoo concept where the name "maya" appears as bold raised lettering with smooth shading, highlights, and subtle abstract background wisps on a white field.

Gender Association of the Name Maya

The name Maya is broadly considered female, though it holds gender-neutral appeal in some cultures. In countries like the United States and India, it is primarily female, while in Scandinavian regions, it can be unisex. Famous figures with this name, like Maya Angelou, affirm its feminine linkage in popular culture.

Popularity of the Name Maya

The popularity of the name Maya has seen a steady rise, especially in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Ranking high on baby name charts in United States and United Kingdom, it continues to be a favored choice. Its success is attributed to its melodic sound and multicultural resonance, maintaining top positions in various regions from Europe to the Americas.

Global Usage of the Name Maya

Maya enjoys diverse global appreciation, prominent in India, United States, and Israel. The pronunciation varies slightly—'Ma-ya' in Spanish-speaking regions versus 'My-a' in English-speaking areas. The name also bears cultural significance in Japan and Maya civilization, reflecting its eclectic use.

Global Distribution & Gender Ratio

Usage and gender distribution of the name Maya across different countries, based on data from GenderAPI.

Indonesia 37.04%
♀ Female: 98.83% ♂ Male: 1.17%
United States 13.9%
♀ Female: 98.85% ♂ Male: 1.15%
Türkiye 7.43%
♀ Female: 94.17% ♂ Male: 5.83%
Malaysia 3.76%
♀ Female: 98.29% ♂ Male: 1.71%
Russian Federation 3.72%
♀ Female: 100% ♂ Male: 0%

The analysis of gender and popularity by country is derived from information provided by Gender API.

Similar Names Related with the Name Maya

  1. K

    Kaia

    Derived from Scandinavian cultures, often meaning pure.

  2. N

    Naya

    Means new or fresh in Arabic.

Characteristic Features of People Named Maya

Creative

Individuals named Maya often possess artistic tendencies, showcasing originality.

Empathetic

They tend to display great empathy and understanding towards others' feelings.

Resilient

Mayas are known for their determination and ability to bounce back from challenges.

Curious

A natural curiosity drives them to explore and learn about the world.

Common Career Paths for People Named Maya

Artistic Fields

Many Mayas excel in fields like painting, music, or dance, utilizing their creativity.

Education

Driven by curiosity, they often pursue teaching and learning environments.

Healthcare

Empathy and resilience make them well-suited for careers in medicine or therapy.

Writing

With strong communication skills, they are often drawn to literature and journalism.

Unique and Interesting Characteristics of the Name Maya

  1. Historical Resonance

    Maya civilization's link adds an intriguing historical depth to the name.

  2. Literary Fame

    Renowned poet Maya Angelou brings literary prestige and inspiration to the name.

  3. Pop Culture Presence

    Appears in numerous films and TV shows, reflecting its timeless appeal.

  4. Mythological Importance

    In Greek mythology, Maia was one of the Pleiades and the mother of Hermes.

Famous People Named Maya

  • Maya Angelou: Renowned poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist.
  • Maya Rudolph: Accomplished actress and comedian known for her work on SNL.
  • Maya Moore: Professional basketball player and WNBA star.
  • Maya Lin: Architect and designer famous for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Name Maya

Answers to the most common questions people ask about the name Maya.

What is the meaning of the name Maya?

The name Maya has various meanings, including 'magic' and 'illusion' in Sanskrit, with 'grace' and 'water' meanings in other cultures.

What is the origin of the name Maya?

Maya originates from multiple cultures, including Sanskrit, Hebrew, and Greek, reflecting its global appeal.

Is Maya a male or female name?

Maya is predominantly a female name, though it has gender-neutral applications in some cultures.

How popular is the name Maya?

Maya is a popular name in the United States and the United Kingdom, often ranking high in baby name charts.

How is the name Maya used globally?

The name Maya has global appeal, with different pronunciations and cultural significance in places like India and Israel.

What are common career paths for people named Maya?

People named Maya often excel in artistic, educational, and healthcare fields, demonstrating creativity and empathy.

What are some similar names to Maya?

Similar names to Maya include Maia, Mara, and Lila, each with unique origins and meanings.

Who are some famous people named Maya?

Famous people named Maya include Maya Angelou, an esteemed poet and civil rights activist, and actress Maya Rudolph.