Mariya

Mariya is a feminine given name, a variant of Maria used in several languages, notably in Slavic-speaking regions such as Russia, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, and North Macedonia, as well as in other European contexts. The name is a transliteration of the Hebrew name Miriam/Miryam and has been associated with Mary, the mother of Jesus, in Christian tradition. Because of its biblical connections, Mariya has been a common given name in many Christian communities across Europe and Eurasia since antiquity.

Etymology and meaning are uncertain. Miriam/Miryam appears in ancient texts with proposed meanings that include “sea of bitterness,” “rebellion,” or “beloved,” though there is no definitive consensus. In practice, the name carries religious and cultural associations in many countries, contributing to its enduring use.

Variants and related forms include Maria, Marie, and Mary in English; Mária in Hungarian; Marija in Serbo-Croatian and Slovenian; Мария (Mariya) in Cyrillic-writing languages; Miryam as another transliteration; and Meryem in Turkish. Pronunciation varies by language, but a common Slavic rendering is roughly MAR-ya, with the emphasis on the first syllable.

Usage and name day: Mariya remains common in Russia, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Serbia, and neighboring areas, and it appears in diaspora communities worldwide. In cultures with Marian traditions, name days or feast days associated with Marian veneration may be observed in connection with the Virgin Mary.

Notable people: The name is borne by many women across diverse fields, reflecting its broad cultural reach. As a given name, Mariya appears in literature, media, science, and public life as a regional variant of Maria.