US Popularity Rank: 5684

Origin: Filipino

Meaning: Lyre; Dancing; Sad song; Sickness, weak; Woman; Beloved; Expensive, dear

Mahalia is a feminine name whose roots span the globe, lending diverse meanings to its repertoire. Mahalia has several ancestors in Hebrew, from Mahalath, meaning “lyre,” “dancing,” “sad song,” and “sickness,” to Mahlah, meaning “weak” and “sick.” Mahalia is brightened by its potential Filipino origin, believed to be linked to the Tagalog mahal, meaning “beloved” or “expensive” and “dear.” Mahalia may also be inspired by mahala, a Native American word for “woman.” Baby will be in star-studded company with American gospel singer Mahalia Jackson, whose divine voice remains a guiding light to countless souls on their spiritual path.