Holding steady.
Popularity of Media since 1880
Babies named Media per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1898, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Media's real moment was 1880.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 50 |
| 1890s | 62 |
| 1900s | 60 |
| 1910s | 87 |
| 1920s | 48 |
| 1930s | 25 |
| 1940s | 36 |
| 1950s | 10 |
| 1960s | 50 |
| 1970s | 40 |
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Media is a name of uncertain origin, with its first recorded use in the United States occurring in 1880. According to U.S. Social Security data, it was recorded only once that year and never again appeared in the top 1000 names. As of 2025, the name remains extremely rare, with no recent usage data available. Its trajectory has been flat, essentially nonexistent in modern naming records. The name may be associated with the ancient region of Media or the mythological Medea, but these connections are speculative. For parents seeking a truly unique name with historical roots, Media offers a distinct choice, though its lack of continuity and unclear meaning may give pause.
The name Media likely derives from the ancient region of Media in Persia, or as a feminine variant of the name Mede. It has been used sporadically in English-speaking countries since the 19th century, possibly influenced by the Greek mythological figure Medea, though the connection is unconfirmed. Its usage has always been rare, with no consistent tradition.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Medea
Sibling names for Media
Names that share Media's style, for a brother or sister.
