Origin and meaning of the name Maliyah

The given name Maliyah is believed to have origins in Arabic and African cultures. In Arabic, the name Malak means "angel" or "messenger." The name can also be a variation of Melekiah, which means "one who becomes king." In certain African languages, Maliyah could potentially mean "queen" or "noblewoman," although this is less definitively established. However, it's important to note that names can have multiple origins and are often adopted, adapted, or evolved in various cultures over time.

Learn more about the origin of the name Maliyah

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Maliyah

The given name Maliyah is of Arabic origin and is a variant spelling of the name Maryam, which is derived from the Hebrew Miriam. In Arabic, Maryam translates to "praiseworthy" or "exalted." It is one of the names traditionally attributed to the Virgin Mary in Christian faiths. The name Maliyah has gained popularity in various parts of the world due to its unique sound and deep-rooted meaning. Its usage may also be influenced by contemporary pop culture figures who bear this name, further contributing to its global recognition.

Character traits associated with the name Maliyah

The name Maliyah is often associated with individuals who possess a strong sense of empathy and compassion. They are known for their nurturing nature, being attentive to the needs of others and demonstrating a genuine concern for their well-being. Maliyahs are also characterized by their adaptability and resilience, as they have the ability to adjust quickly to new situations and maintain an optimistic outlook even in challenging circumstances. They are creative thinkers who often exhibit strong problem-solving skills, using their intuition and insight to find unique solutions. Additionally, Maliyahs possess a charismatic charm that allows them to easily connect with others, making them natural leaders and peacemakers within their social circles. Overall, these individuals embody warmth, understanding, and an indomitable spirit, making them valued friends, family members, and community members.

Popularity of the name Maliyah

Maliyah is a less common but growing female given name, particularly popular in the United States. According to data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), the name Maliyah first appeared in the SSA's baby names database in 2006 and has been gradually gaining popularity since then. In 2020, it ranked at number 789 in terms of popularity among female birth names in the United States. This indicates that while it is not a common name, its usage has increased significantly over the past decade, making it a notable choice for parents seeking unique and modern names for their daughters. The name Maliyah may be appealing to some due to its exotic sound and the association with beauty and grace, as well as its distinctive spelling, which sets it apart from more traditional female names.

Famous people with the name Maliyah

Maliyah is a unique name that has been borne by several notable figures across various fields. The most recognized individual bearing this name is Maliyah Hoskins, an American actress and model who rose to prominence for her role as young Lila Rucker in the television series "Greenleaf." Another significant figure with the name is Maliyah Kai Lee, a Malaysian-born Australian child actor known for her roles in "The Code" and "Home and Away." Additionally, Maliyah Sewell is an American basketball player who gained attention as one of the top prospects in the women's NCAA basketball landscape, playing for the University of Kentucky. Lastly, Maliyah Agee-Mullarkey, a Canadian actor and musician, garnered acclaim for her role as young Dionne in the 1998 film "Circle of Friends." These individuals have each made their mark in their respective industries with talent, perseverance, and charisma.

Variations of the name Maliyah

The name Maliyah, while primarily spelled as such, has several variations that are also used. These include Maliya, Malliyah, Malliya, Mailya, and Myliha. Each variation may be influenced by regional dialects, cultural traditions, or personal preference. It is important to note that the exact spelling can impact the pronunciation slightly, but the essence of the name remains consistent across variations. Maliyah is a beautiful name of Arabic origin, meaning "queen" or "princess". It is becoming increasingly popular in Western cultures due to its unique sound and regal connotations.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the first name "maliyah"
• Global distribution of the first name on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 14 June 2025

Share the origin and meaning of your name with your friends