Water or refuge
In Arabic contexts, the name is often associated with a place of refuge, shelter, or a destination. It also appears in several West African languages where it can refer to water or have local cultural significance. It is a rare choice in the United States, offering a distinct and melodic sound.
Less common today
Mawa isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #9,893 in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990βpresent (SSA data).