Mary
beloved
- Origin
- Hebrew
- Religion
- Christian
- Gender
- Girl
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Pronunciation
- MAIR-ee
- Popularity
- falling
Common nicknames
MollyPollyMae
About the name Mary
Mary is a girl name of Hebrew origin meaning "beloved". It is most commonly used in Christian families and is especially popular in United Kingdom.
Mary was the most popular girl's name in the US every year from 1880 through 1961 — an unbroken 80-year run at #1. It has since fallen out of the top 100, but remains a common middle name and holds unmatched significance in Christianity. Countless nicknames and international variants (Maria, Marie, Maryam) descend from it.
Popularity trend: Mary is used less often now than it was a generation ago, which can make it feel fresh again.
Reviewed by the Babbloom Editorial Team. Read our editorial methodology.
Frequently asked about Mary
- What does the name Mary mean?
- Mary means "beloved". It's a girl name of Hebrew origin, most commonly used in Christian families and popular in United Kingdom.
- Where does the name Mary come from?
- Mary originates from Hebrew. On Babbloom it's classified in the Christian naming tradition.
- Is Mary a boy or girl name?
- Mary is a girl name.