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Origin and meaning of the name Marija

What is the origin of the name Marija?

The name Marija is of Slavic origin, and it is the Croatian, Serbian, Slovenian, Macedonian, and Latvian form of the name Maria. Maria is a variant of the name Mary, which is of Hebrew origin and means "beloved" or "wished for child." The name Marija is common in Eastern Europe and is often used to honor the Virgin Mary in the Christian tradition.

Learn more about the origin of the name Marija

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Marija

The name Marija is a variant of the name Maria, which has its origins in Hebrew and means "bitter" or "rebellious." It is a popular name in various cultures and countries, including Slavic-speaking regions. In Eastern European countries such as Croatia, Serbia, and Slovenia, Marija is a common name for girls and is often associated with traits such as beauty, grace, and strength. The name has biblical origins, being the Latin form of the Greek name Μαρία, which is derived from the Hebrew name מִרְיָם (Miriam). Marija is a timeless and elegant name that has stood the test of time, remaining a popular choice for parents seeking a traditional yet beautiful name for their daughters.

Character traits associated with the name Marija

Marija is a name typically associated with individuals who are compassionate, empathetic, and nurturing. They are often seen as kind-hearted and always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Marijas are known for their strong sense of responsibility and reliability, making them natural caretakers and supportive friends. They are also known for their positive outlook on life and ability to see the good in any situation. Marijas are typically creative and imaginative individuals, with a love for art and beauty. They are known for their gentle and gentle nature, always striving to bring peace and harmony to those around them. Overall, Marijas are known for their warmth and kindness, making them a joy to be around.

Popularity of the name Marija

The name Marija has a moderate level of popularity, particularly in Eastern European countries such as Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia. It is a variation of the name Maria, which has widespread popularity globally. In these countries, Marija is a common name given to girls and is often associated with traits like intelligence, beauty, and strength. The name has biblical origins, being derived from the name Mary, the mother of Jesus. It maintains a sense of tradition and cultural significance in these regions, making it a popular choice for parents looking for a meaningful and timeless name for their daughter. While it may not be as commonly used in other parts of the world, Marija continues to be a beloved and enduring name with a rich history and significance.

Famous people with the name Marija

Marija Šerifović is a famous Serbian singer who gained international recognition after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 2007 with the song "Molitva." She is known for her powerful vocals and emotional performances. Marija Yovanovitch is a prominent American diplomat who served as the United States Ambassador to Ukraine from 2016 to 2019. She played a key role in the impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump in 2019. Marija Vujovic is a successful Montenegrin model who has walked the runways for top fashion designers like Givenchy and Chanel. She has graced the covers of numerous magazines and is known for her striking beauty and unique look. These Marijas have made a name for themselves in their respective fields and continue to inspire others with their talent and leadership.

Variations of the name Marija

Marija is a popular name in various cultures and can be found in different variations around the world. In Slavic countries like Croatia and Serbia, you may come across variations such as Mara, Maja, Marijana, or Marica. In Spain and Latin America, the name may be spelled as María or Marí. In Italy, you may find the name as Mariella or Marica. In Greece, the name may be written as Mari or Maro. Regardless of the variation, Marija is a beautiful and timeless name that is often associated with qualities like strength, grace, and elegance. No matter how it is spelled or pronounced, Marija remains a distinct and beloved name that carries a sense of tradition and cultural significance.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 11 April 2025

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