Mariah is a distinctive girls' name in England & Wales, ranking #916 in 2012 with 40 recorded births. This places Mariah in the top 12% of ranked UK girls' names for the year. Its actual usage is classified as Uncommon. The name reached its all-time peak in 1996 with 80 births ranking #402. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 50.0%. In 2012, approximately 1 in every 8,051 girls born was named Mariah. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Mariah is a lyrical form linked to the Mary family and carries the same ancient biblical background. It feels soft, expressive, and distinctly melodic.
The name became much more visible in modern English-speaking use because it sounds more elaborate than Maria while staying recognisable. Popular culture also helped secure its place as a familiar modern choice.