Maia is a name of Latin origin that means "midday" or "noon". It is derived from the Latin word "media", which refers to the middle of the day when the sun is at its highest point. The name Maia is also associated with the Roman goddess of spring and growth, who was believed to be a fertility goddess.
In Greek mythology, Maia was also known as one of the seven Pleiades sisters, daughters of Atlas and Pleione. She was the mother of Hermes, the messenger god, by Zeus. The constellation of Maia can still be seen in the night sky today, along with her sisters.
The name Maia has gained popularity in recent years, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. It is often chosen for its unique sound and meaning, as well as its association with nature and growth. Despite its Latin origin, the name Maia can be found in various cultures around the world, including Hawaiian, where it means "sea of mist".
The name Maia has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States, according to the data provided. Between 1950 and 1984, the number of births with the name Maia remained relatively low, ranging from 5 to 84 births per year. However, starting in 1985, there was a notable increase in the popularity of the name, with over 70 births per year recorded each year since then.
The peak years for the name Maia were between 1996 and 2008, during which time there were over 400 births per year every year except for 2003. The highest number of births was recorded in 2007 with 492 births.
Since 2009, the popularity of the name Maia has continued to grow, with over 400 births per year each year until 2022. The most recent data shows that there were 669 births in 2023 alone, indicating that the name remains popular among parents in the United States.
Overall, the total number of births with the name Maia in the United States from 1950 to 2023 is 16,792. This data reflects a consistent increase in popularity for the name over time and suggests that it continues to be a popular choice among parents today.