Malisha is a unique and captivating female given name of African origin, particularly from the Igbo tribe of Nigeria. The name Malisha is derived from the Igbo word "mali" which means "to travel". It is often interpreted to mean "traveler" or "one who travels widely". This etymology suggests a spirit of adventure and exploration associated with this beautiful name.
Malisha is not a particularly common name, adding to its exclusivity and charm. However, it is not without historical significance. In Igbo culture, names often hold important meanings and are given based on the circumstances surrounding the birth or experiences of the child. Thus, a child named Malisha might be expected to grow into someone with a love for travel or exploration.
The name Malisha has a melodic sound when spoken aloud, with its three syllables flowing smoothly. It starts with the soft 'M' sound, followed by the gentle 'a', and finishes with the long, drawn-out 'sh' sound. This phonetic composition gives Malisha an appealing rhythm and musicality that is pleasing to the ear.
In terms of its written form, Malisha is straightforward and easy to spell in English. Its simple structure makes it accessible for people of different linguistic backgrounds, yet it remains distinct enough to stand out from more common names.
Overall, Malisha is a compelling choice for a girl's name. It offers a unique and meaningful sound alongside an intriguing cultural heritage that might inspire its bearer to embrace the spirit of exploration and adventure associated with its origins.
The name Malisha experienced a significant peak in popularity from the late 1970s to the mid-1980s, with over 40 births per year occurring between 1977 and 1982. This period saw the highest number of newborn girls named Malisha, particularly in 1981 with a notable spike of 43 births. However, after the late 1980s, its usage began to decline, with fewer than 20 births per year from 1990 onwards and only sporadic instances in recent years, such as 5 births each in 2012 and 2016, as well as 6 births in 2021. Overall, there have been a total of 632 babies named Malisha since 1964.