Malaja, of Slavic origin, particularly popular among Russians and Ukrainians, is derived from the male name Malaki. It means 'small' or 'short', reflecting its diminutive nature. The name has gained some popularity in recent years due to its unique sound and spelling, making it a distinctive choice for parents looking for something different.
"Malaja was a relatively popular name for newborns between 1995 and 2014, with peaks in usage around the years 2005 and 2008."