📅 Since 1880🏆 129 years in top 1007.76% of births at peak
How to pronounce Mary
MER·ee
/ˈmɛr.iː/ · stress on MER · 2 syllables
“Beloved”
Hebrew origin · Girl name
What does Mary mean and where does it come from?
The name Mary has deep roots in Hebrew culture, being derived from the Hebrew name מִרְיָם (Miryam). In the New Testament of the Bible, Mary is the mother of Jesus, which has contributed to the name's enduring popularity in many Christian cultures. The name became popular in England during the Middl
Cultural significance
Mary has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of beloved.
Holding steady — currently #133 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#133 · Top 0.10%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#133
2,081
▲ up 1 · -2% births
2022
#134
2,116
▼ down 2 · +1% births
2021
#132
2,100
▼ down 8 · -4% births
2020
#124
2,188
▼ down 1 · -17% births
2015
#123
2,631
▼ down 15 · -8% births
2010
#108
2,871
▼ down 36 · -36% births
2005
#72
4,459
▼ down 26 · -28% births
2000
#46
6,198
▼ down 6 · -17% births
1995
#40
7,455
▼ down 5 · -14% births
1990
#35
8,667
stable · -6% births
1985
#35
9,244
▼ down 10 · -19% births
1980
#25
11,474
▼ down 6 · +5% births
1975
#19
10,967
▼ down 10 · -43% births
1970
#9
19,203
▼ down 7 · -44% births
1965
#2
34,270
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Mary
1900Rank #1
70,982
#38
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Mary
Mary has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It reached the #1 spot in 1880, making it the most popular girl name in America that year. Over 4145K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. Mary is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Mary means "Beloved" — a name rooted in Hebrew tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Mary?
Mary is currently ranked #133 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Mary?
Mary originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Mary?
Mary is a two-syllable name pronounced M EH1 R IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Mary more of a girl or boy name?
Mary is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Mary
For a sister
Mary & Elizabeth♡
Mary & Anna♡
Mary & Eva♡
Mary & Esther♡
For a brother
Mary & Esther♡
Mary & Reubin♡
Mary & Noah♡
Mary & Benjamin♡
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