Anaiah

Meaning & origin

Anaiah has been a steadily rising name in the United States since the early 1990s, with a trajectory that shows sustained growth. First recorded in 1983, it reached its peak rank of 853 in 2025, with approximately 1 in 5,054 newborn girls receiving the name that year. The name has particularly strong usage in Massachusetts, Florida, and Maryland, reflecting its appeal among families seeking a biblical name with a melodic sound. Anaiah's recent resurgence parallels a broader trend of rediscovering Old Testament names, especially those ending in '-iah,' such as Micaiah and Nehemiah. While still relatively uncommon, its steady climb suggests it may become a more familiar choice in coming decades.

Anaiah is a Hebrew name derived from the elements 'ana' (answered) and 'Yah' (a shortened form of Yahweh, the God of Israel). In the Old Testament, Anaiah is a minor figure, mentioned in Nehemiah as one of the Israelites who sealed the covenant. The name has been revived in recent decades, particularly in the United States, where it has gained traction as a modern biblical choice for girls.