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MALIA Family History

There are two possible origins for this interesting surname which in various spelling forms is widely recorded. As Mallia or Mallya it is probably a derivation of the ancient Indo - Persian (Islamic) "Malaha", a word denoting nobility or wealth, and typical of ancient baptismal names which were based upon chivalry or religion. When spelt as "Malia" (although there is clearly some overlap) the origin is probably from the early Italian "Malia" a word which descibes one who was a magician but which had a secondary meaning of "Charming" and may have been applied as a baptismal name of endearment.