Mihai is a name of Romanian origin, derived from the Slavic name Mihail, which is ultimately derived from the Greek name Michael. The name Michael itself comes from the Hebrew name Mikha'el, which means "Who is like God?" or "God is my strength." Thus, Mihai means roughly the same thing as Michael.
The name Mihai has a long history in Romania and other parts of Eastern Europe. It was popularized by Romanian ruler Mircea the Elder, who named his son Mihnea (a variant of Mihai) in the 14th century. Since then, it has been a common choice for boys among Romanians.
Today, Mihai remains a popular name in Romania and other countries with significant Romanian populations, such as Moldova and Serbia. It is also sometimes used in other parts of Europe and beyond, thanks to migration patterns and cultural exchange.
Overall, Mihai is a strong and meaningful name with deep roots in Eastern European history and culture. Its powerful meaning makes it a fitting choice for parents looking for a name with a special significance.
"The name Mihai has seen a consistent presence with an average of about 7 births per year over the past two decades, with slight fluctuations and peaks occurring periodically."