Meya is a unique and distinctive given name of African origin. It is believed to have originated from the Yoruba people of Nigeria and Benin, where it is used as both a masculine and feminine name.
The meaning of Meya varies depending on the source, but some interpretations suggest that it could mean "joy" or "rejoice." This may be related to the Yoruba belief in the power of joy and happiness to bring about positive change. Others interpret Meya as meaning "beauty," reflecting the African appreciation for beauty and elegance.
Historically, Meya has been a popular name among the Yoruba people for generations. It is often passed down through families and carries with it a sense of cultural heritage and pride. In recent years, Meya has gained international recognition as more people become aware of African names and their meanings.
While Meya may not be as widely known as some other African names, such as Aisha or Jade, it remains a beloved and significant name among those who carry it. Its unique sound and rich cultural history make it a distinctive choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.
Based on the statistical data provided, the name Meya has seen fluctuations in its popularity over the past four decades in the United States.
The name first appeared in the top 1000 baby names list in 1997 with 13 births that year. This marked a significant increase from previous years where the name was not common enough to be tracked by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The popularity of Meya continued to rise, reaching its peak in 2006 with 62 births.
However, after this high point, the popularity of the name began to decline. Between 2007 and 2015, the number of babies named Meya fluctuated between 39 and 57 births per year. Since then, the name's popularity has continued to decrease, with only 7 births recorded in both 2022 and 2023.
Overall, a total of 817 babies have been named Meya in the United States since 1979. While the name's popularity has varied over time, it has consistently remained relatively uncommon compared to other names. Nonetheless, Meya continues to be given as a baby girl's name each year, indicating that some parents still choose this unique and distinct name for their daughters.