Rising since 1986, #774 for girls today.
Popularity of Malaya since 1977
Babies named Malaya per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2014, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Malaya's real moment was 2021.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 23 |
| 1980s | 33 |
| 1990s | 225 |
| 2000s | 1,980 |
| 2010s | 3,907 |
| 2020s | 2,299 |
Meaning & origin
Malaya is a name that has steadily climbed in popularity since its first recorded use in the United States in 1977. Currently ranked 774 as of 2025, it is given to about 1 in every 4,579 baby girls. Its peak year came in 2021, and it has shown a consistent rising trajectory since 1986. The name is most popular in states like New Mexico, West Virginia, and Mississippi, reflecting a diverse geographic appeal. Its meaning of 'free' or 'independent' in Tagalog gives it a powerful yet gentle resonance, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with cultural significance and a modern feel.
Malaya is a feminine name of Tagalog origin, directly derived from the Filipino word for 'free' or 'independent.' It also has connections to the Sanskrit word 'mālaya,' meaning 'free' or 'liberated.' The name gained visibility in the Philippines and among Filipino diaspora communities, and has seen increasing use in the United States since the 1980s.
Where Malaya is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mala, Laya, Maya
Sibling names for Malaya
Names that share Malaya's style, for a brother or sister.
