This list includes 8 Native American girl names that start with M, from “Mahtowin” to “Muna”. These names often reflect nature, virtues, or family roles, and suit parents, writers, and creators seeking meaningful, culturally rooted names.

Native American girl names that start with M are names from many tribes, often inspired by nature and personal qualities. For example, “Mahtowin” is sometimes used to mean bravery in certain traditions.

Below you’ll find the table with Name, Pronunciation, Meaning, Origin, Notes, and Citation.

Name: The name as recorded in sources, so you can see exact spelling and choose the preferred form.

Pronunciation: Provide phonetic cues or simple guides so you can say the name correctly with reasonable confidence.

Meaning: Concise definition summarizing the name’s usual translation or sense, helping you understand its cultural meaning and nuance.

Origin: Lists the tribe, nation, or language of origin so you can consider cultural context and regional background.

Notes: Short context, usage tips, or variant spellings you may want to know when selecting a name.

Citation: A brief reference to each source so you can follow up or learn more about origin and meaning.

Native American girl names that start with M

NamePronunciationMeaningTribe/Origin
Mahtowinmah-TOH-weenBear woman.Lakota — New Lakota Dictionary (2008)
Makamah-KAHThe earth; ground; soil.Lakota/Dakota — New Lakota Dictionary (2008)
Mapiyamah-PEE-yahSky, clouds, or the heavens.Lakota/Dakota — Colorado State Univ. Dakota Dictionary
MazaMAH-zahMetal or iron.Dakota/Lakota — Riggs, “Dakota-English Dictionary” (1890)
Memengwameh-MENG-wahButterfly.Ojibwe (Anishinaabemowin) — The Ojibwe People’s Dictionary
Miginamee-GEE-nahReturning new moon.Omaha — Fletcher & La Flesche, “The Omaha Tribe” (1911)
MiseMEE-sehWhite sun or pale sun.Osage — Osage Nation Dictionary
MunaMOO-nahOverflowing spring.Hopi — Poshwese, “Hopi Names” (1980)

Descriptions

Mahtowin
A traditional Lakota name combining maȟtó (bear) and -wiŋ (a feminine suffix). Bears are powerful figures in Lakota spirituality, representing strength, courage, and wisdom.
Maka
This name represents the earth, a central and sacred element in Lakota and Dakota cosmology, evoking a sense of stability, nurturing, and connection to all life.
Mapiya
Often used in longer names like Maȟpíya Lúta Wiŋ (Red Cloud Woman), this name connects the bearer to the vast and sacred realm of the sky.
Maza
A strong name, often part of longer traditional names like Mazomaniwin (Walks in Iron Woman), reflecting the introduction of metal and its perceived strength and durability.
Memengwa
In Ojibwe culture, the butterfly can symbolize transformation, peace, and the beauty of nature. It is a gentle yet powerful name with positive associations.
Migina
Documented by ethnographers over a century ago, this traditional Omaha name is linked to the lunar cycle, representing renewal, time, and feminine power.
Mise
An Osage name combining mí (sun) and se (white, pale). The sun is a powerful force and a central clan symbol in the Osage worldview.
Muna
This Hopi name comes from the verb mö’na, meaning ‘to be full to overflowing’. It beautifully evokes images of abundance, life-giving water, and generosity.
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