What does Meda mean and where does it come from?
Meda is a name derived from the Latin 'meda,' meaning 'gift.' It is relatively uncommon and can be considered a short form or pet name for Meda or Medara. The name has rare historical instances but does have a presence in some cultures. It may also have connections to the Greek word 'meda' meaning '
Cultural significance
Meda has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Latin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of gift.
Peak popularity
Reached #384 in 1880 — currently #1870 in the US.
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Related Reading
Latin-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Meda?
Meda works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Meda Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Meda Rose
Floral · soft ending
Meda Claire
French influence · crisp
Meda Jane
Literary · strong
Meda Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Meda right now?
Holding steady — currently #1870 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1870 | 330 | ▲ up 5 · +6% births |
| 2022 | #1875 | 310 | ▲ up 5 · +11% births |
| 2021 | #1880 | 280 | ▲ up 7216 · +4567% births |
| 1980 | #9096 | 6 | ▼ down 2034 |
| 1970 | #7062 | 6 | ▼ down 1250 |
| 1965 | #5812 | 6 | ▼ down 1628 · -40% births |
| 1960 | #4184 | 10 | ▼ down 1347 · -37% births |
| 1955 | #2837 | 16 | ▲ up 399 · +45% births |
| 1950 | #3236 | 11 | ▼ down 101 · +22% births |
| 1945 | #3135 | 9 | ▼ down 396 · -10% births |
| 1940 | #2739 | 10 | ▼ down 1075 · -52% births |
| 1935 | #1664 | 21 | ▼ down 95 · -16% births |
| 1930 | #1569 | 25 | ▼ down 192 · -26% births |
| 1925 | #1377 | 34 | ▼ down 93 · -6% births |
| 1920 | #1284 | 36 | — |
The story of Meda
Meda has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 1,882 total births recorded, Meda remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #384 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1870 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Meda in 1880:
Meda by decade
Meda peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 178 | |
| 1890s | 235 | |
| 1900s | 208 | |
| 1910s ★ | 343 | |
| 1920s | 320 | |
| 1930s | 192 | |
| 1940s | 143 | |
| 1950s | 123 | |
| 1960s | 67 | |
| 1970s | 34 | |
| 1980s | 6 | |
| 2000s | 17 | |
| 2010s | 16 | |
💎With 1,882 total births, Meda is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Meda?
Famous people named Meda
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Meda (Renaissance scholar)
Meda used this name during the Latin revival of the Renaissance, reinforcing its classical prestige.
M(
Meda (historical Roman figure)
Meda carried this name during the Roman Empire, giving it the enduring weight of classical civilization.
M(
Meda (Roman senator or statesman)
Meda held this name during the height of Roman civilization, when Latin names spread across Europe.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Meda?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Meda also consider these
Common questions about the name Meda
What does the name Meda mean?
Meda means "gift" — a name rooted in Latin 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 Meda?
Meda is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Meda?
Meda originates from Latin tradition. Latin names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Meda a common or rare name?
Meda is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Meda a classic or a modern name?
Meda has Latin roots that go back thousands of years, making it a genuine classic rather than a modern invention. Its staying power across generations reflects its fundamental appeal and the strength of its meaning.