Girl name · Hebrew
Mary
“beloved; bitter sea”
Vibes
Common nicknames
Short-forms and diminutives parents often use for Mary.
Explore Mary further
Similar-feel alternatives, or middle-name candidates that pair well with Mary — both ranked by the same scoring system (vibe overlap, syllable rhythm, origin compatibility).
About the name
Mary is the English form of the Hebrew Miryam — glossed across centuries as "beloved," "wished-for child," and "drop of the sea" (the medieval stella maris, star of the sea). For four hundred years of American records it was simply the name.
Mary was number one for so long that its 2024 rank of 134 represents the single greatest fall — and the single greatest contrarian opportunity — in the book.
Choosing Mary now is the quietest bold move available: every generation alive recognizes it, almost no newborn carries it. It pairs with everything (Mary Wren, Mary Juniper refresh it instantly). Pure Heirloom — the original.
More Hebrew names
Mary sits in our Hebrew set — these share its roots.
All Hebrew names →Mary — common questions
Is Mary a boy or girl name?
Mary is traditionally a girl name of Hebrew origin. It ranked #125 among US girls' names in 2025.
What does the name Mary mean?
Mary means “beloved; bitter sea” of Hebrew origin. Mary is the English form of the Hebrew Miryam — glossed across centuries as "beloved," "wished-for child," and "drop of the sea" (the medieval stella maris, star of the sea). For four hundred years of American records it was simply the name.
Where does the name Mary come from?
Mary is Hebrew in origin. Mary was number one for so long that its 2024 rank of 134 represents the single greatest fall — and the single greatest contrarian opportunity — in the book.
What are common nicknames for Mary?
Molly, Polly, Marie, Mary, and May — the short-forms parents most often use for Mary.
How popular is Mary?
Mary ranked #125 in US Social Security Administration data for 2025, which makes it familiar without being crowded.
Bring the name into the room
A couple of nice things named Mary you might want for the nursery.