Maria

Meaning: uncertain; perhaps 'beloved' or 'bitter' · Origin: Hebrew · Gender: usually a girl's name

Origin & history

The Latin form of Miriam, the Hebrew name of Mary, mother of Jesus. The original meaning is uncertain; suggestions include 'beloved' and 'bitter'.

Famous people named Maria

Maria Montessori (educator)
Maria Callas (singer)
Maria Sharapova (tennis player)

Nicknames

Mia, Mimi, Ria

Variants & related names

Mary, Marie, Mariam, Miriam

Maria name art

A free preview of a printable “Maria” poster with its meaning — great for a nursery, a birthday or a gift.

Instant download, no subscription. Not printed or shipped — you get a high-resolution PNG to print at home or at a print shop.

FAQ

What does the name Maria mean?

Maria means “uncertain; perhaps 'beloved' or 'bitter'”. It comes from Hebrew.

Is Maria a popular name?

Yes — Maria has been one of the most popular girls' names in the United States in the 2020s, according to US Social Security Administration baby-name data.

What are nicknames for Maria?

Mia, Mimi, Ria.

What are other forms of Maria?

Mary, Marie, Mariam, Miriam.

Similar names

Elisa · Eliza · Elliana · Elizabeth · Abigail · Naomi

More: names starting with M · all girls' names

Sources: standard name etymology references (e.g. Behind the Name, Oxford Dictionary of First Names); popularity from US SSA and UK ONS baby-name data. Meanings of old names are often debated — where scholars disagree we say so.