Maria
beloved, of the sea
- Origin
- Latin
- Religion
- Catholic
- Gender
- Girl
- Country
- Italy
- Pronunciation
- muh-REE-uh
- Popularity
- falling
Common nicknames
MiaMari
About the name Maria
Maria is a girl name of Latin origin meaning "beloved, of the sea". It is most commonly used in Catholic families and is especially popular in Italy.
Maria is the Latin form of Mary and is among the most popular girls' names in history worldwide — routinely #1 or #2 in Spain, Italy, Portugal, Brazil and much of Latin America for decades at a time. In the US it has slowly declined but remains a common middle name. It's used across Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant traditions.
Popularity trend: Maria is used less often now than it was a generation ago, which can make it feel fresh again.
Reviewed by the Babbloom Editorial Team. Read our editorial methodology.
Frequently asked about Maria
- What does the name Maria mean?
- Maria means "beloved, of the sea". It's a girl name of Latin origin, most commonly used in Catholic families and popular in Italy.
- Where does the name Maria come from?
- Maria originates from Latin. On Babbloom it's classified in the Catholic naming tradition.
- Is Maria a boy or girl name?
- Maria is a girl name.