“wished-for child” — Symbolize a 'wished-for child' in English contexts
English origin · Unisex name
♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls
#208US 2023
1.4kBirths / yr
↓Falling
168.9kAll-time births
📅 Since 1880🏆 21 years in top 1000.25% of births at peak
How to pronounce Molly
MAH·lee
/ˈmɑ.liː/ · stress on MAH · 2 syllables
“wished-for child”
Symbolize a 'wished-for child' in English contexts · English origin
What does Molly mean and where does it come from?
Molly is derived from the name Mary, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'bitter' but has come to symbolize a 'wished-for child' in English contexts. Molly was extremely popular in the 18th and 19th centuries and continues to be a favored name to this day. Notably, Molly Ringwald is a famous actress as
Cultural significance
Molly has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of wished-for child.
Declining — down 9 spots — currently #208 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#208 · Top 0.15%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#208
1,437
▼ down 9 · -3% births
2022
#199
1,481
▼ down 13 · -6% births
2021
#186
1,582
▼ down 12 · -3% births
2020
#174
1,635
▼ down 30 · -27% births
2015
#144
2,252
▼ down 57 · -33% births
2010
#87
3,362
▲ up 10 · +5% births
2005
#97
3,214
▼ down 2 · -5% births
2000
#95
3,399
▲ up 3 · +1% births
1995
#98
3,382
▼ down 18 · -15% births
1990
#80
3,965
▲ up 40 · +63% births
1985
#120
2,431
▲ up 13 · +10% births
1980
#133
2,203
▲ up 37 · +42% births
1975
#170
1,548
▲ up 88 · +30% births
1970
#258
1,193
▲ up 6 · +12% births
1965
#264
1,063
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Molly
1990Rank #80
3,965
#255
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Molly
Molly has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #74 in 1991. More than 168,853 babies have been named Molly since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #400 in 1880 to #208 in 2023. Molly is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Molly means "wished-for child" — a name rooted in English 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 Molly?
Molly is currently ranked #208 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Molly?
Molly originates from English tradition. English 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 Molly?
Molly is a two-syllable name pronounced M AA1 L IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Molly more of a girl or boy name?
Molly 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 Molly
For a sister
Molly & Emily♡
Molly & Ella♡
Molly & Bryson♡
Molly & Bailey♡
For a brother
Molly & Angel♡
Molly & Christian♡
Molly & Bryson♡
Molly & Bailey♡
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