Usual English form of Maria, the Latin form of the New Testament Greek names Μαριαμ (Mariam) and Μαρια (Maria) - the spellings are interchangeable - which were from Hebrew מִרְיָם (Miryam), a name borne by the sister of Moses in the Old Testament. The meaning is not known for certain, but there are several theories including "sea of bitterness", "rebelliousness", and "wished for child". However it was most likely originally an Egyptian name, perhaps derived in part from mry "beloved" or mr "love".
This is the name of several New Testament characters, most importantly Mary the virgin mother of Jesus, and Mary Magdalene. Due to the Virgin Mary this name has been very popular in the Christian world, though at certain times in some cultures it has been considered too holy for everyday use. In England it has been used since the 12th century, and it has been among the most common feminine names since the 16th century. The Latinized form Maria is also used in English as well as in several other languages.
This name has been borne by two queens of England, as well as a Queen of Scotland, Mary Queen of Scots. Another notable bearer was Mary Shelley (1797-1851), the author of 'Frankenstein'. A famous fictional character by this name is Mary Poppins from the children's books by P. L. Travers. - quoted from Behind The Name
Mary has been hugely popular in past years by today it only ranks #120 in USA, #225 in England and Wales and #77 in Ireland. Most of the Marys I have known have been in their 90s or 80s, then there's some peppered through at my parent's age and I know one girl age 21 with the name.
My father's grandmother was Mary Frances and I've always loved the name. I really like Mary as a middle name in combos like Julia Mary, Eleanor Mary or Catherine Mary. I also like it as a first name in combos like Mary Frances, Mary Amelia or Mary Joyce. I'd definitely use it to honor my great-grandmother.
What do you think of the name Mary?
Do you know anyone with this name?
What other names would you pair it with?
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