Meaning & Origin
A single lobe of an insect's maxilla. The grinding surface of an insect's mandible. The third segment of a mandible of some myriapods.
Mala is a girl's baby name of Sanskrit origin, derived from the Sanskrit mālā, meaning 'necklace,' 'garland,' or 'rosary.' In Hindu tradition, a mala is a string of prayer beads used for meditation — typically 108 beads — making the name deeply connected to spiritual practice and devotion.
Mala is also used in Slavic cultures as a diminutive of Mala or Malina (meaning 'raspberry'), and in Hebrew contexts it connects to Mahlah. Across traditions, the name carries a quiet, contemplative beauty — whether evoking a string of jewels or a string of prayers, Mala is a name of meaningful adornment.