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.; American Names; Biblical Names; Celebrity Names; Celtic Names; Christian Names; Classic Names; English Names; Hebrew Names; Latin Names; Literary Names; Pirate Names; Royal Names; Saints Names; Scottish Names
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 1149 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.