María
María Origin and Meaning
María is a feminine name with deep Latin and Hebrew roots, representing one of the most enduring and widespread names in Spanish-speaking countries and beyond. Derived from the Hebrew 'Miriam,' its meaning has been interpreted as 'bitter sea,' 'beloved,' or 'wished-for child.' María holds profound religious significance as the name of the mother of Jesus in Christian tradition. Throughout centuries, it has maintained extraordinary popularity across Hispanic, Latin American, and Catholic communities worldwide. Often used as a first element in compound names (María Elena, María José), it reflects both deep religious devotion and cultural heritage. The accent over the 'í' distinguishes the Spanish pronunciation from other variants like Maria or Marie. Its timeless appeal spans generations, symbolizing purity, motherhood, and grace.
Popularity of the name María
- 48Iceland2024