Mariyka

Mariyka is a diminutive and affectionate form of Maria, itself the Latin and Greek rendering of the Hebrew name Miryam, whose exact meaning is debated but is often connected to roots meaning beloved or sea of bitterness. The name is used chiefly in Ukrainian and Bulgarian traditions as an informal, endearing variant of the widely venerated name carried by the Virgin Mary in Christian tradition. Related forms include Mariya, Maryia, and Marysia across Slavic languages.