MallowbyNames

Maleka

mah-LEE-kah · Queen or princess, derived from the Arabic word malikah.

2025 rank (girls)
#14,942
Babies named in 2025
5
Peak popularity
1980
2025 frequency
1 in 321,453 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady, #14,942 for girls today.

Popularity of Maleka since 1970

Babies named Maleka per year in U.S. Social Security records.

81523198020002020Most births 1980Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1970s91
1980s106
1990s133
2000s43
2010s18
2020s12

Meaning & origin

Maleka is an Arabic name meaning 'queen' or 'princess', a feminine variant of Malikah. It entered U.S. records in 1970 and peaked in popularity in 1980, though it has remained a rare choice. As of 2025, it ranks 14,942nd, with approximately 1 in 321,453 newborns receiving the name. Its trajectory has been stable, with no recent revival. The name carries regal connotations and is common in Muslim communities. While top states for its usage are not reported due to low numbers, Maleka appeals to parents seeking a name with cross-cultural resonance and a melodic sound.

Maleka is a variant of the Arabic name Malikah, meaning 'queen' or 'princess'. It is a feminine form of Malik, which means 'king'. The name has been used across the Arabic-speaking world and among Muslim communities globally, often carrying connotations of nobility and leadership. It gained some popularity in the United States starting in the 1970s.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Mali, Leka, Kiki

Variants: Malika, Malikah, Maleeka

Sibling names for Maleka

Names that share Maleka's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Aisha, Jamila, Layla, Zahra, Nadia

Brothers: Amir, Khalid, Malik, Zayn, Omar

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

M is for Maleka, our favorite little girl.

M is for Maleka…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Maleka's letter becomes Maleka's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Maleka's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Maleka mean?
Maleka means 'queen' or 'princess', derived from the Arabic word malikah.
How popular is the name Maleka?
According to Social Security data, Maleka ranked 14,942nd in 2025, with about 1 in 321,453 births. Its peak popularity was in 1980.
Is Maleka a boy or girl name?
Maleka is used almost exclusively for girls.