Maya
Illusion, magic — a girl name of Sanskrit origin
Popularity of Maya in the United States
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Meaning & Origin of Maya
Maya is a name with remarkably diverse origins. In Sanskrit, it means "illusion" or "magic" and is a central concept in Hindu philosophy describing the illusory nature of the physical world. In Greek mythology, Maia was the goddess of spring and the mother of Hermes. In Hebrew, Maya is a form of Mayim, meaning "water." The name also connects to the ancient Maya civilization of Central America. This rich multicultural tapestry makes Maya a name of extraordinary depth. It has been steadily popular since the late 20th century, bolstered by the legacy of the poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou.
Maya Around the World
Maya is used in 8 languages worldwide, with 10+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
Nicknames for Maya
Famous People Named Maya
- Maya Angelou — American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist
- Maya Rudolph — American actress and comedian
- Maya Lin — American architect who designed the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Similar Names to Maya
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Sibling Name Ideas for Maya
Looking for names that pair well with Maya? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Maya mean?
Maya is a girl name of Sanskrit origin meaning "Illusion, magic." Maya is a name with remarkably diverse origins. In Sanskrit, it means "illusion" or "magic" and is a central concept in Hindu philosophy describing the illusory nature of the physical world.
How do you pronounce Maya?
Maya is pronounced MY-uh. Common variations include Maia, Mayah, Maja.
Is Maya a girl name?
Yes, Maya is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include May, My.
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