Maria

The original meaning is uncertain; “beloved” is one proposed interpretation.

Maria belongs to the name family of Hebrew Miryam, transmitted through Greek and Latin. Its original meaning remains uncertain. “Bitterness” and “rebelliousness” are traditional explanations; “beloved” belongs to a proposed Egyptian derivation. None is a settled translation. The association with Mary, the mother of Jesus, is central to its Christian history. Maria is primarily feminine, though it also occurs as a masculine middle name in countries including Germany and Italy. That specific tradition does not make every use gender-neutral. English /mə.ˈɹiː.ə/, roughly muh-REE-uh, gives the long middle vowel the emphasis. The final a makes Maria more expansive than Mary. It can appeal for its gentle cadence and the sense of continuity offered by a long-established name.

Etymology: A Latin form of Greek Maria, ultimately from the Hebrew name Miryam.