Find out how popular the first name Arya has been for the last 42 years (from 1982 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Arya by gender

Based on the last 42 years of data, Arya is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 92% of people named Arya being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 2,002 female babies and 56 male babies born with the name Arya.

Yes—according to the SSA data, 56 baby boys were named Arya in 2023, despite it being a predominantly female name. We'd love to know why!

The history of the first name Arya

The name Arya originates from the Sanskrit language of ancient India, where it has its roots in the word 'arya' which means 'noble' or 'respectable'. The name can be traced back to the Vedic period, around 1500-500 BCE, and is associated with the Indo-Aryan people who migrated to the Indian subcontinent.

Arya is a prominent name in Hindu mythology and scriptures. In the Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered Hindu texts, Arya is used as an epithet for the virtuous and noble. The name is also mentioned in the Upanishads, a collection of philosophical texts that form the theoretical basis for Hindu belief.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Arya is Aryabhata, a renowned Indian mathematician and astronomer who lived in the 5th century CE. He is credited with formulating the principles of algebra and advancing the study of astronomy and mathematics in ancient India.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Arya. Arya Chanakya, also known as Kautilya, was a renowned Indian teacher, philosopher, and royal advisor who lived in the 4th century BCE. He is widely regarded as the pioneer of political science and economics in ancient India and is the author of the Arthashastra, an influential treatise on statecraft and economic policy.

Arya Devi was a renowned Indian mystic and philosopher who lived in the 16th century CE. She was a prominent figure in the Bhakti movement and is revered for her spiritual teachings and devotional poetry.

Arya Samaj, founded by Swami Dayananda Saraswati in the late 19th century, is a Hindu reform movement that promotes the principles of the Vedas and rejects idolatry and caste distinctions. The movement played a significant role in the Indian independence struggle and continues to have a large following in India and abroad.

Arya Stark is a fictional character from the popular fantasy series "A Song of Ice and Fire" by George R.R. Martin. She is depicted as a strong-willed, brave, and skilled young woman who plays a pivotal role in the series' narrative.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Arya was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Arya, please contact us.

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