Marija

Marija (Мария) represents a form of the biblical name Maria and is common in Russian, South Slavic, and Baltic regions. However, the exact origin and meaning of the name are not clearly defined.

What does the name Marija mean?

Marija (Мария) is a variant of the biblical name Maria, found in Russian, South Slavic, and Baltic cultures. The origins and meanings are not precisely defined, but it is believed to derive from Egyptian and means 'the beloved'. Other meanings can be derived from Aramaic and Hebrew, such as 'the (gift) of God', 'the well-nourished', 'the sea myrrh', 'the sea drop', 'the rebellious', or 'the untamed'. Common variants of the name include Mariya and Marja. In Slavic, especially in Russian, there are affectionate forms like Manja, Mariyka, Marusja, as well as Masha/Mascha. Among the most notable bearers of the name are Bulgarian actress Marija Bakalova and former Russian tennis player Marija Juryevna Sharapova.

Where does the name Marija come from?

The name Marija has its roots in Aramaic and Ancient Hebrew and can take on meanings such as 'the rebellious' or 'the beloved'. In Egyptian, it is

How do you pronounce Marija?

The sound and pronunciation of Marija are three syllables and pleasantly rhythmic. In German pronunciation, the name is usually rendered as 'Ma-ri-ja' [maˈʁiːja], starting with a warm A sound that conveys openness. The stressed middle syllable with a long I gives brightness to the sound, while the soft 'ja' at the end creates a gentle finish. Marija thus appears both classic and international - harmonious, feminine, and timeless.

When is the name day of Marija?

The most important name day for Marija is celebrated on September 12 (Feast of the Name of Mary).

Popularity

In Germany, Marija is among the popular first names and currently ranks 485th on the list of the most common female baby names. Its highest ranking was in 1953, when it reached 117th place. Over the past ten years, Marija has been given as a first name approximately 680 times, placing it at 670th in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 631st.

Nicknames & pet names

Maja / Maka / Mara / Mascha

Similar first names

Famous people

• Marija Alexandrowna Gurowa (Russian wrestler)
• Marija Alexandrowna Meyn (pianist from Russia)
• Marija Alexandrowna Stepanowa (basketball player from Russia)
• Marija Borissowna Strelenko (biathlete from Russia)
• Marija Cetkovic (Miss Serbia 2014)
• Marija Dschumabajewna Pinigina (Russian sprinter)
• Marija Eric (Serbian basketball player)
• Marija Grigorjewna Issakowa (Russian speed skater)
• Marija Igorewna Gromowa (Russian synchronized swimmer)
• Marija Igorewna Guschtschina (Russian skier)
• Marija Jovanović (Serbian writer)
• Marija Juric Zagorka (writer from Croatia)
• Marija Karan (Serbian actress)
• Marija Kobic (actress)
• Marija Korytzewa (British tennis player)
• Marija Lojpur (Serbian handball player)
• Marija Maciul (Lithuanian artist)
• Marija Manakova (Russian chess player)
• Marija Manolowa (Bulgarian biathlete)
• Marija Michailowna Korotejewa (Russian hurdler)