Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
Malia is a name of Hawaiian origin that means 'calm' or 'peaceful'. Its roots trace back to the Hawaiian language, with modern adaptations appearing in various forms. The name has gained popularity in the United States since the late 20th century, often associated with a serene image. It does not have a biblical background, and notable figures with the name include Malia Obama and Malia Jones.
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/məˈliːə/
Origin
Hawaiian
Etymology
Malia is derived from the Hawaiian language, and it is often associated with the meaning of 'calm' or 'peaceful'. It can also be linked to the Hebrew name 'Miriam'.
Meaning
calm, peaceful
Language Evolution
Malia (Hawaiian), Maliyah (Modern variation)
Historical Usage
Malia gained popularity in the United States during the late 20th century, particularly after the rise of Hawaiian culture and influence.
Variants & Derivatives
Maliyah, Malie, Maliah
Modern Popularity & Image
Malia is perceived as a beautiful and serene name, often associated with nature and tranquility, and has become popular among diverse cultures.
Famous People
Malia Obama, Malia Jones
📊 Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Name Visualizations
Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Highly Popular name with 1,700 peak births in 2009
Geographic Spread
Popular across 49 US states, with strongest presence in Hawaii
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 6 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Alternative Spellings & Similar Sounds (7 Variations)
Explore names that share identical pronunciation with different spellings. These variations offer alternative options for parents seeking unique yet familiar-sounding choices. This curated collection includes 7 carefully selected variations that maintain the same phonetic sound while providing distinct spelling options.
Why consider alternative spellings? Different spellings can offer unique cultural significance or personal preference while maintaining the familiar sound. This collection covers various spelling patterns, helping you find variations that match your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Girl | 9107th of 9107 | 5 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 2115th of 12526 | 515 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 1256th of 19264 | 1,438 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 1028th of 27321 | 2,686 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 403rd of 35406 | 12,274 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 281st of 30306 | 13,811 |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
65.47% 1458th/2227 |
100.00% 2430th/2430 |
89.03% 2540th/2853 |
43.10% 1196th/2775 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
100.00% 2937th/2937 |
- |
100.00% 3518th/3518 |
14.17% 573rd/4044 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
42.58% 1569th/3685 |
46.75% 2092nd/4475 |
36.37% 1889th/5194 |
9.07% 573rd/6317 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
9.71% 445th/4582 |
10.59% 547th/5164 |
6.96% 509th/7313 |
3.58% 267th/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
7.58% 302nd/3984 |
6.08% 273rd/4487 |
4.16% 284th/6822 |
4.00% 251st/6276 |
State-by-State Popularity
This map shows relative popularity across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends in the United States
This name shows strongest popularity in Hawaii across all generations. It ranks highest as a Girl name among the Generation Alpha generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, usage has been too falling for female in MidWest, falling for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, too falling for female in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, too falling for female in South, stalled for female in West. Across generations, popularity patterns vary significantly: Among the G.I. Generation (1901-1927), it ranked 9107th out of 9107 names. Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 2115th out of 12526 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 1256th out of 19264 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 1028th out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 403rd out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 281st out of 30306 names. Explore how this name has evolved through American history with comprehensive regional and generational analysis.