Mary

What does the baby name Mary mean? Learn about what Mary means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Mary - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Mary
M-A-R-Y, is a 4-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Mary
MER-ee
MAR-ee
MARE ee
Meaning of Mary
Sea of bitterness, of the sea or bitter, rebellious woman.
Origin of Mary
The name 'Mary' has a long and storied history, dating back centuries. Its earliest known use can be traced back to ancient times, with its roots in the Hebrew language. 'Mary' is derived from the Hebrew name 'Miriam', meaning 'bitter' or 'rebellious'. In biblical times, 'Mary' was a common name, borne by several prominent figures, including the mother of Jesus Christ.
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Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Mary
Maga
Maida
Maieli
Maija
Maika
Maion
Mair
Maire
Mal
Malana
Mallie
Mame
Mamie
Manette
Manka
Manna
Manon
Manya
Marabel
Maraya
Marda
Mardi
Marea
Maree
Marella
Marelle
Maresa
Maret
Maretta
Marfa
Mari
Maria
Mariah
Marial
Mariam
Marian
Mariana
Marianne
Marica
Marice
Maridel
Marie
Marieke
Mariel
Mariella
Marielle
Marien
Marij
Marija
Marijke
Marika
Marilee
Marilla
Marilyn
Marin
Marinha
Marion
Maris
Mariska
Marita
Maritsa
Marja
Marjaka
Marjatta
Marla
Marley
Marlo
Maroula
Marree
Marrey
Marry
Marsia
Maruca
Maruchka
Maruka
Maruska
Marya
Maryal
Marybel
Marybelle
Marysa
Mashka
Maura
Maureen
Maurise
Maurizia
Mavra
Mearr
Mere
Mergen
Meri
Meria
Meridel
Merika
Merrie
Merry
Mhaire
Mhairi
Mieke
Mieze
Mija
Mimi
Mina
Minette
Miriam
Mitzi
Moira
Moire
Molara
Mollie
Molly
Mora
Morag
Moria
Moya
Moyra
Muire
Muriel
Polly
Popularity of Mary
Throughout history, the name 'Mary' has experienced remarkable popularity. In fact, it has consistently been one of the most popular names for girls. From the Middle Ages to the present day, 'Mary' has remained a beloved choice for parents. However, there have been notable spikes in its usage during certain periods. For example, during the Victorian era, the name 'Mary' reached its peak popularity, symbolizing purity and virtue.
Mary currently has 1148 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked girl's names. The name Natasha is slightly more popular than Mary.

Etymology of Mary

The linguistic roots of the name 'Mary' can be traced back to various languages. In addition to its Hebrew origin, 'Mary' has connections to other languages such as Aramaic, Latin, and Greek. In Latin, 'Mary' is a variant of the name Maria, which is derived from the Greek name Mariam. These linguistic connections highlight the widespread adoption and adaptation of the name across different cultures.

Cultural Significance of Mary

The name 'Mary' holds significant cultural importance in various contexts. In Christianity, 'Mary' is revered as the mother of Jesus and is considered a symbol of purity and devotion. Throughout art, literature, and religious texts, 'Mary' is often depicted as a figure of grace and compassion. Additionally, 'Mary' has been embraced in different cultures, such as Irish and Polish, where it holds deep religious and cultural significance.