Rising since 2000, #7,133 for girls today.
Popularity of Manaia since 2000
Babies named Manaia per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 2000s | 81 | 0 |
| 2010s | 124 | 23 |
| 2020s | 84 | 19 |
Meaning & origin
Manaia entered U.S. birth records in 2000, a relatively recent arrival. Its popularity peaked in 2015, when it ranked 7133 nationally. Over the past two decades, the name has shown a rising trend, particularly since 2000. It is currently given to about 1 in 107,151 newborns, reflecting its niche appeal. Most bearers live in California, which tops the list of states where the name is used. The name draws directly from Māori mythology, where a manaia is a protective spirit, often depicted in carvings. While not common, Manaia offers a distinctive cultural connection for families with ties to New Zealand or those drawn to its meaning.
Manaia is a name of Māori origin, derived from the term for a mythological guardian figure with a bird-like head and human body, often depicted in carvings. It is also used as a given name in New Zealand, reflecting a connection to Māori cultural heritage.
Where Manaia is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Manaia” around the world
Where Manaia lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
New Zealand
#93
in 2025
Sources: NZ Dept of Internal Affairs (New Zealand).
Sibling names for Manaia
Names that share Manaia's style, for a brother or sister.
