Declining since 2006, #2,607 for girls today.
Popularity of Janaya since 1973
Babies named Janaya per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 134 |
| 1980s | 269 |
| 1990s | 624 |
| 2000s | 1,724 |
| 2010s | 865 |
| 2020s | 349 |
Meaning & origin
Janaya is a modern American name that first entered the U.S. naming landscape in 1973. Its popularity peaked in 2006, when it ranked highest, but it has been steadily declining since then; in 2025, it ranked 2,607th with 1 in every 24,353 newborn girls. The name is most common in Florida and New York, suggesting a regional preference. Linguistically, Janaya appears to be a creative combination of the name Jan (or Jana) with the popular suffix -aya, a pattern seen in many contemporary invented names. The name's lack of historical roots means it offers a blank slate, free from past associations, appealing to parents seeking a fresh, melodic sound. Its trajectory indicates it is a niche choice, neither common enough to feel ubiquitous nor rare enough to be unfamiliar.
Janaya is a modern name that first appeared in the United States in 1973. It is likely a blend of names like Jana or Janelle with the popular -aya ending (seen in names like Maya or Anaya). There is no historical precedent or clear etymological root.
Where Janaya is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Jana, Naya, Jay
Variants: Janayah, Jannaya
Sibling names for Janaya
Names that share Janaya's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Maya, Alaya, Saraya, Kiana, Anaya, Jamiracle, Janasia, Jatavia, Jalasia, Janilah, Kanijah, Kenyanna, Markiya, Nijah, Ameshia, Danashia, Jahmiya, Mikeya, Tajanay, Tanaja
Brothers: Jaylen, Kai, Elian, Zane, Nolan, Jatavious, Cortavious, Jaquari, Jatavius, Zayquan, Armarion, Jamarien, Tredarius
