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Maliyah Girl

Popularity: #489 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: mah-LEE-ah //məˈliːə//

Origin: Arabic; African; English

Meaning: Arabic: a form of 'Malia'; African: 'gift'; English: 'beloved'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Maliyah is believed to have roots in Arabic, derived from the word "maliha," which means "beautiful" or "pretty." This etymology reflects a broader tradition in Arabic naming conventions, where names often carry significant meanings related to beauty, virtue, and positive attributes. The name's journey into English-speaking contexts likely occurred through cultural exchanges and the influence of Arabic on various languages, particularly during the medieval period when trade and scholarship flourished between the Arab world and Europe.

Historically, names with similar roots have been used in various cultures, often associated with figures of beauty or grace. In the Islamic tradition, names that denote beauty are particularly valued, and the name Maliyah may resonate with this cultural significance.

While specific historical milestones directly linked to the name Maliyah are not well-documented, the broader cultural appreciation for names that signify beauty can be traced back to ancient Arabic poetry and literature, where such attributes were celebrated. Culturally, the name Maliyah may evoke a sense of elegance and charm, aligning with the values of beauty and grace found in many societies.

The name's phonetic structure, with its melodic quality, contributes to its appeal, making it a fitting choice for those who appreciate names with lyrical and aesthetic qualities. Additionally, diminutive forms such as Mali or Lia may emerge in familial or affectionate contexts, further enriching the name's cultural resonance.

Overall, Maliyah encapsulates a blend of linguistic heritage and cultural significance that underscores its enduring allure.

Sibling suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Maliyah was first seen in the United States in 1994. Maliyah has ranked as high as #545 nationally, which occurred in 2009, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Florida, Georgia, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Maliyah has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Maliyah (2024)

State Births Share
TX 46
10%
FL 39
9%
GA 36
8%
CA 34
8%
IL 22
5%
NC 22
5%
PA 22
5%
NY 21
5%
TN 20
4%
MO 14
3%
IN 14
3%
VA 13
3%
OH 13
3%
SC 12
3%
WI 12
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
199421
199524
199637
199769
199878
199987
2000123
2001190
2002249
2003296
2004260
2005296
2006306
2007384
2008481
20091,117
2010890
2011912
2012823
2013799
2014735
2015728
2016757
2017790
2018739
2019766
2020665
2021585
2022595
2023571
2024515