Maia is a name of Latin origin that means "midday" or "noon". It is derived from the Latin word "media", which refers to the middle of the day when the sun is at its highest point. The name Maia is also associated with the Roman goddess of spring and growth, who was believed to be a fertility goddess.
In Greek mythology, Maia was also known as one of the seven Pleiades sisters, daughters of Atlas and Pleione. She was the mother of Hermes, the messenger god, by Zeus. The constellation of Maia can still be seen in the night sky today, along with her sisters.
The name Maia has gained popularity in recent years, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. It is often chosen for its unique sound and meaning, as well as its association with nature and growth. Despite its Latin origin, the name Maia can be found in various cultures around the world, including Hawaiian, where it means "sea of mist".
The name Maia experienced a significant rise in popularity over the decades, with a steady increase from the 1950s to the peak in recent years. The most notable spikes occurred between 1996 and 2000, where it jumped from 327 births in 1997 to a peak of 723 births in 2021, showing a growing fondness for this name over time.