What does Maja mean and where does it come from?
The name Maja is ubiquitous in several cultures, including Swedish, Croatian, and Polish. Its roots are connected to both the Latin term 'maior' meaning 'greater' and the name 'Maria,' which carries connotations of nurturing and motherhood. Maja is also associated with the month of May, symbolizing
Cultural significance
Maja has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Swedish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of polish.
Peak popularity
Reached #2299 in 2011 — currently #4943 in the US.
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Related Reading
Swedish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Maja?
Maja works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Maja Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Maja Rose
Floral · soft ending
Maja Claire
French influence · crisp
Maja Jane
Literary · strong
Maja Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Maja right now?
Falling — down 1796 spots — currently #4943 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #4943 | 27 | ▼ down 1796 · -48% births |
| 2022 | #3147 | 52 | ▼ down 93 · -4% births |
| 2021 | #3054 | 54 | ▲ up 773 · +46% births |
| 2020 | #3827 | 37 | ▼ down 972 · -39% births |
| 2015 | #2855 | 61 | ▼ down 425 · -21% births |
| 2010 | #2430 | 77 | ▼ down 68 · +3% births |
| 2005 | #2362 | 75 | ▲ up 551 · +53% births |
| 2000 | #2913 | 49 | ▲ up 907 · +75% births |
| 1995 | #3820 | 28 | ▲ up 2117 · +87% births |
| 1990 | #5937 | 15 | ▲ up 251 · +36% births |
| 1985 | #6188 | 11 | ▼ down 2121 · -42% births |
| 1980 | #4067 | 19 | ▲ up 660 · +46% births |
| 1975 | #4727 | 13 | ▼ down 318 |
| 1970 | #4409 | 13 | ▲ up 1239 · +86% births |
| 1965 | #5648 | 7 | — |
The story of Maja
Maja entered American naming records in 1953 and has been in use for over 71 years. With 1,837 total births recorded, Maja remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5648 in 1965 to #4943 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Maja in 2011:
Maja by decade
Maja peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 11 | |
| 1960s | 58 | |
| 1970s | 143 | |
| 1980s | 153 | |
| 1990s | 221 | |
| 2000s ★ | 638 | |
| 2010s | 576 | |
| 2020s | 37 | |
💎With 1,837 total births, Maja is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Maja?
What names sound and feel like Maja?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Maja also consider these
Common questions about the name Maja
What does the name Maja mean?
Maja means "Polish" — a name rooted in Swedish 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 Maja?
Maja is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Maja?
Maja originates from Swedish tradition. Swedish names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Maja a common or rare name?
Maja is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What personality traits are associated with the name Maja?
Studies on name perception suggest that Maja is often associated with balance and approachability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.