Mary

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Mary

Gender Girl
Origin Hebrew
Letters 4
Syllables 2
Pronunciation Mer-ee

Mary, which has 4 letters and 2 syllables, is a female name of Hebrew origin.

Meaning of Mary

Sea of bitterness

Mary is a popular name for girls of all ages. It is of Hebrew origin and means “bitter” or “beloved”. The name is often associated with the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus, and is a name that signifies purity and piety.

Save
Rate:
(3.5/5 from 19 votes)
Meaning Sea of bitterness
Origin Hebrew
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #132 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Moderate (Top 250)
Era Vintage (1900s)

Background & History of The Name Mary

The name "Mary" is a given name with a rich historical and cultural significance. It has its roots in biblical origin, originating from the Hebrew name "Miryam" or "Maryam." Mary holds a prominent place in the New Testament as the mother of Jesus Christ. Throughout history, Mary has been held in high esteem by various Christian denominations and is often considered as a symbol of virtue, purity, and maternal love.

In addition to its religious significance, the name Mary has also been widely adopted and used across different cultures. It has been a popular name for girls in English-speaking countries for centuries. The longevity of its popularity can be attributed to its simplicity, grace, and timeless charm. Many famous historical figures bear the name Mary, including Mary Queen of Scots, Mary Magdalene, and Mary Shelley, the renowned author of "Frankenstein."

Furthermore, Mary has several variations and diminutives in different languages, showcasing its adaptability and global appeal. In Spanish, it becomes "María," in Italian "Maria," and in Polish "Maria." These variations highlight the name's versatility and its ability to seamlessly blend into various cultural contexts.

Throughout literature and popular culture, the name Mary has been a common choice for character names, representing a diverse range of personalities. From Mary Poppins, the beloved magical nanny, to Mary Jane Watson, the iconic love interest of Spider-Man, the name Mary has earned a place in the collective consciousness of storytelling.

In conclusion, the name Mary bears deep religious significance, has a long history of usage, and its timeless appeal has transcended cultural boundaries. Whether associated with biblical figures or fictional characters, Mary continues to be cherished and celebrated as a name that symbolizes strength, purity, and enduring grace.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Mary over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials Mary would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Mary.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names