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Maia

Maia (mā'u, mī'u) [key]. 1. In Greek mythology, oldest of the Pleiades. She was the mother of Hermes by Zeus. 2. In Roman mythology, goddess of fertility; also called Maiesta. She was often identified with Bona Dea. The month of May was probably named for her.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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