Find out how popular the first name Manay has been for the last 3 years (from 2022 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Manay by gender

Based on the last 3 years of data, Manay is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 6 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Manay.

The history of the first name Manay

The name Manay is believed to have its origins in the ancient Mayan civilization of Mesoamerica, dating back to around 250-900 AD. It is thought to be derived from the Mayan word "manay," which translates to "strong" or "powerful." The Mayan people inhabited present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and parts of Honduras and El Salvador.

One of the earliest recorded references to the name Manay can be found in the Popol Vuh, a sacred book of the Quiché Maya people. In this text, Manay is mentioned as the name of a powerful ruler and warrior. The name's association with strength and power likely stems from this historical reference.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Manay. One such person was Manay K'awil, a renowned Mayan warrior and leader who lived in the 7th century AD. He was known for his bravery and military prowess in defending the city-state of Calakmul against rival kingdoms.

Another prominent figure with the name Manay was Manay Chan Bahlum, a Mayan ruler who lived in the 9th century AD. He was the ajaw (king) of the city-state of Uxmal, and his reign was marked by significant architectural and cultural achievements, including the construction of the famous Pyramid of the Magicians.

In the 16th century, there was a Mayan woman named Manay Canek, who played a crucial role in the resistance against the Spanish conquistadors. She was a leader and advisor to the famous rebel Nachi Cocom, and her efforts helped preserve Mayan culture and traditions during the tumultuous period of Spanish colonization.

A more recent historical figure with the name Manay was Manay Ho Yen, a Chinese-born Hawaiian businessman and philanthropist who lived from 1880 to 1958. He made significant contributions to the development of the Hawaiian Islands and was known for his charitable works.

Lastly, Manay Opolu Zubair was a prominent Somali educator and women's rights activist who lived from 1931 to 2016. She played a crucial role in promoting education and empowering women in Somalia, establishing several schools and advocating for gender equality.

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 Manay was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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