What does Maira mean and where does it come from?
Maira is derived from the Hebrew name Ma'iri, meaning 'to illuminate' or 'to shine'. It is also a variation in Spanish-speaking countries, where it can be linked to beauty and a nature association with the sea.
The name has variants in multiple cultures and has gained popularity in diverse regions
Cultural significance
Maira has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Israel-speaking communities, where it reflects values of מאירה (maira).
Peak popularity
Reached #732 in 1992 — currently #1976 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Israel-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Maira?
Maira works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Maira Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Maira Rose
Floral · soft ending
Maira Mae
Sweet · timeless
Maira Claire
French influence · crisp
Maira Jane
Literary · strong
Maira Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Maira right now?
Holding steady — currently #1976 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1976 | 224 | ▲ up 5 · +10% births |
| 2022 | #1981 | 204 | ▲ up 5 · +17% births |
| 2021 | #1986 | 174 | ▲ up 1095 · +241% births |
| 2020 | #3081 | 51 | ▼ down 461 · -25% births |
| 2015 | #2620 | 68 | ▼ down 432 · -24% births |
| 2010 | #2188 | 89 | ▲ up 92 · +13% births |
| 2005 | #2280 | 79 | ▼ down 675 · -28% births |
| 2000 | #1605 | 110 | ▼ down 686 · -46% births |
| 1995 | #919 | 205 | ▼ down 113 · -18% births |
| 1990 | #806 | 250 | ▲ up 104 · +44% births |
| 1985 | #910 | 174 | ▲ up 99 · +21% births |
| 1980 | #1009 | 144 | ▲ up 1708 · +414% births |
| 1975 | #2717 | 28 | ▲ up 451 · +33% births |
| 1970 | #3168 | 21 | ▼ down 62 · +24% births |
| 1965 | #3106 | 17 | — |
The story of Maira
Maira entered American naming records in 1944 and has been in use for over 80 years. With 6,033 total births recorded, Maira remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5631 in 1955 to #1976 in 2023. Maira is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Maira in 1992:
Maira by decade
Maira peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 5 | |
| 1950s | 64 | |
| 1960s | 167 | |
| 1970s | 383 | |
| 1980s | 1,648 | |
| 1990s ★ | 2,147 | |
| 2000s | 921 | |
| 2010s | 647 | |
| 2020s | 51 | |
💎With 6,033 total births, Maira is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Maira?
What names sound and feel like Maira?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Maira also consider these
Common questions about the name Maira
What does the name Maira mean?
Maira means "מאירה (Maira)" — a name rooted in Israel tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Maira?
Maira is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Maira?
Maira originates from Israel tradition. Israel names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Maira?
Maira is a four-syllable name pronounced M AA1 AY1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Maira?
Maira pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Israel heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.