Maya

1. Maya name meaning and origin

Maya, a name of rich historical significance, carries various meanings across different cultures. In Sanskrit, it represents the concept of 'illusion' or 'magic', reflecting the Hindu philosophical belief that the material world is a divine illusion. In Hebrew origins, Maya (מַיָה) derives from the word 'mayim', meaning 'water', symbolizing life and purity. Additionally, the name has roots in Greek mythology, where Maia was one of the Pleiades and the mother of Hermes.

The name Maya also has strong connections to indigenous cultures, particularly to the ancient Maya civilization of Central America. While this connection doesn't directly influence the name's meaning, it has contributed to its widespread recognition and adoption. Over centuries, Maya has evolved into a popular feminine name in numerous countries, appreciated for its brevity, melodious sound, and multicultural resonance. Its global appeal lies in its simplicity and adaptability across languages, making it a timeless choice for parents worldwide.

References:

2. Maya name popularity

Girl

Boy

in 2023

from 2022

Popularity of Maya

United States

United Kingdom

Maya is a versatile name with cross-cultural roots, appearing in Sanskrit, Hebrew, Greek, and Latin traditions. While primarily used as a female name in both the United States and United Kingdom, records indicate it occasionally serves as a masculine name in America as well. The name carries rich meanings across different cultures, including "illusion" in Sanskrit, "water" in ancient Mayan civilization, and "gift from God" in Hebrew.

Though specific ranking data is limited in the provided information, Maya has gained considerable popularity in Western countries since the late 20th century. Its appeal likely stems from its multicultural significance, melodic sound, and connection to nature and spirituality. The name continues to be embraced for its simplicity and elegance across diverse communities.

3. Variations and nicknames of Maya

The name Maya has flourished across numerous cultures and linguistic traditions, resulting in a rich tapestry of variants. In Sanskrit origins, Maya (माया) signifies 'illusion' or 'magic,' while its Hebrew roots connect it to the meaning 'water.' Across Europe, spelling variations include Maja (popular in Scandinavian countries, Germany, and Eastern Europe), Maia (common in Portugal, Romania, and Italy), and Mayah (an anglicized variation with the same pronunciation). Other cultural variants include Maïa (French), Mája (Hungarian), Mayra (Latin American), and Mayim (Hebrew). The Japanese name Mai, though etymologically distinct, sometimes serves as a cultural equivalent. In South Asian contexts, particularly in Nepal and India, Mayaa or Mayya represents traditional spelling variations that honor the name's ancient Sanskrit connections.

Beyond its formal variants, Maya inspires numerous affectionate nicknames. The most straightforward diminutives include May, Mays, and Maye. More playful options like Mai-Mai, Maya-bear, and M&M have become popular among families seeking endearing terms. For those with a musical connection, some parents use Melody-Maya or Harmony as musical nicknames. Cultural nicknames include Mayita (Spanish), Mayushka (Russian-influenced), and Maybug (English). Some families opt for personality-based nicknames such as Sunshine, Star, or Magic Maya, reflecting the bright qualities often associated with children bearing this name. Even middle names can influence nicknames, with combinations like Maya-Rose, Maya-Belle, or Maya-Blue sometimes shortened to MR, MB, or hyphenated variations. Through these diverse variants and nicknames, the name Maya demonstrates remarkable adaptability while maintaining its melodious essence across cultural boundaries.

4. Best name combinations with Maya

Middle names that pair well with Maya:

Maya Alessandra
Maya Celestine
Maya Elise
Maya Isabelle
Maya Josephine
Maya Juliette
Maya Katerina
Maya Lillian
Maya Naomi
Maya Ophelia
Maya Rosalie
Maya Seraphina
Maya Soleil
Maya Valentina
Maya Victoria
Maya Florence
Maya Kalinda
Maya Selene
Maya Zara
Maya Zinnia

Names that go well when Maya is used as a middle name:

Amara Maya
Aria Maya
Aurora Maya
Camille Maya
Elena Maya
Eva Maya
Isabella Maya
Isla Maya
Lydia Maya
Nadia Maya
Olivia Maya
Sophia Maya
Stella Maya
Vivienne Maya
Zoe Maya
Amelia Maya
Chloe Maya
Luna Maya
Serena Maya
Violet Maya

5. Numerology of Maya name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

M(4) + A(1) + Y(7) + A(1) = 13 = 1+3 = 4

The Destiny Number 4 suggests someone who is practical, organized, and methodical. People with this Expression Number tend to be reliable, hardworking, and excellent at creating solid foundations. In career, they excel in roles requiring attention to detail, systematic approach, and disciplined effort—such as accounting, engineering, or management. In relationships, they offer stability and dependability, though they may sometimes appear too rigid or conventional. They value honesty and loyalty above all.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

Vowels:

A(1) + A(1) = 2

With a Soul Urge Number of 2, Maya's inner desires center around harmony, cooperation, and meaningful connections. Deep down, she yearns for peace and balanced relationships. In career settings, she thrives in collaborative environments and makes an excellent mediator or team member. In personal relationships, she seeks profound emotional understanding and often puts others' needs before her own. This number indicates sensitivity, diplomacy, and a natural ability to understand others' feelings.

Personality Number:

Consonants:

M(4) + Y(7) = 11 = 1+1 = 2

Maya's Personality Number 2 reveals how others perceive her—as diplomatic, cooperative, and considerate. She likely comes across as someone who values harmony and avoids conflict. This outer personality suggests she presents herself as patient and adaptable. In work environments, she appears as a team player who can bring people together. In relationships, she's seen as supportive and understanding, though sometimes possibly indecisive when trying to please everyone.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

6. Maya name in pop culture

Name

Description

Maya Gallo

Character played by Laura San Giacomo in the NBC sitcom 'Just Shoot Me!' (1997-2003)

Maya Hansen

Character in Marvel's 'Iron Man 3' film, portrayed by Rebecca Hall, who is a botanist and scientist

Maya St. Germain

Character in the teen drama television series 'Pretty Little Liars', portrayed by Bianca Lawson

Maya Lopez

Marvel Comics character also known as Echo, who appears in the Disney+ series 'Hawkeye' and her own show 'Echo'

M.I.A. (Maya Arulpragasam)

British rapper and singer known for hits like 'Paper Planes' and 'Bad Girls'

7. Famous people named Maya

Name

Description

Maya Angelou

Acclaimed American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist best known for her autobiography 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings'

Maya Rudolph

American actress, comedian, and former Saturday Night Live cast member known for films like 'Bridesmaids' and the TV series 'The Good Place'

Maya Lin

American architect and designer best known for creating the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

M.I.A. (Maya Arulpragasam)

British rapper, singer, and activist of Sri Lankan Tamil descent known for hits like 'Paper Planes' and 'Bad Girls'

Maya Hawke

American actress and musician known for her role as Robin Buckley in the Netflix series 'Stranger Things'

Maya Moore

American former professional basketball player who won four WNBA championships with the Minnesota Lynx and became a criminal justice reform advocate

Maya Jama

British television and radio presenter known for hosting shows like 'Love Island UK' and 'Walk the Line'

Maya Deren

Ukrainian-born American experimental filmmaker and important figure in avant-garde cinema of the 1940s and 1950s

Maya Yoshida

Japanese professional footballer who has captained Japan's national team and played for clubs including Southampton and Schalke 04

Maya Kaimal

American cookbook author, food entrepreneur, and founder of Maya Kaimal Foods specializing in Indian cuisine

8. Names similar to Maya

Like Maya ? What about:

Ella

Hriday

Caleb

Camille

Danah

Gauri

Ahjin

Carter

Shivraj

Campbell

Charlette

Cayden

Caiden

Veda

Elaine

Bernice

Bette

Aswath

Golden

Ainsley

Common sibling names

Sisters

Charlee

Camille

Elaine

Darcy

Arya

Elise

Bella

Ella

Veda

Ainsley

Carter

Brothers

Bodie

Eli

Cayden

Darcy

Caleb

Carter

Declan

Caden

Caiden

Aiden

Generate a perfect name for your baby

Our Baby Name Generator helps you find the perfect name, sorted by gender, letter, meaning, and more. You don't need to fill out every field, just the ones you're interested in.

I'm looking for

Any Gender

names with the

Last Name

, starting with

Any Letter

and ending with

Any Letter

with

Any Number of

syllables.

I like names that mean

Floral, Unique, Trendy

and are

Any theme

names.

Show me names of

Any Origin

Origin.

Search by name

Looking for baby name ideas, advice, meanings, and popularity.

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Baby name lists including Maya

Celebrity baby boy names from the 2020s on

By Momcozy Care Team

Our favorite celebrity baby names of 2024

By Momcozy Care Team

The hottest baby name trends of 2023

By Momcozy Care Team

Maya

1. Maya name meaning and origin

References:

2. Maya name popularity

3. Variations and nicknames of Maya

4. Best name combinations with Maya

Middle names that pair well with Maya:

Names that go well when Maya is used as a middle name:

5. Numerology of Maya name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

Vowels:

Personality Number:

Consonants:

6. Maya name in pop culture

7. Famous people named Maya

8. Names similar to Maya

Like Maya ? What about:

Common sibling names

Generate a perfect name for your baby

Search by name

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Baby name lists including Maya

Welcome 👋 😄