Rising since 1985, #1,818 for girls today.
Popularity of Saraya since 1974
Babies named Saraya per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 9 |
| 1980s | 67 |
| 1990s | 269 |
| 2000s | 411 |
| 2010s | 537 |
| 2020s | 459 |
Meaning & origin
Saraya is a name that entered the U.S. naming pool in 1974 and has been climbing ever since, particularly gaining momentum after 1985. By 2025 it reached its peak rank of 1818, with approximately 1 in 14,612 newborn girls receiving the name. Its top states of adoption include Pennsylvania, Indiana, and North Carolina, suggesting a broad but not regionally concentrated appeal. The name's etymology is uncertain, likely a modern blend or adaptation from Hebrew or Arabic roots. This ambiguity adds to its international charm, making it suitable for families seeking a name that feels both contemporary and cross-cultural.
Saraya first appeared in U.S. records in 1974 and has risen steadily since the 1980s. It may be a modern coinage influenced by names like Sarah and Maya, or a borrowing of the Arabic word for 'palaces' (singular saray). Some connect it to the Hebrew name Sarai, the biblical name of Sarah before God renamed her, meaning 'princess'.
Where Saraya is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Sari, Raya, Aya
Sibling names for Saraya
Names that share Saraya's style, for a brother or sister.

