All about the name

Maggie

Female

« Maggie is an endearing and widely-used given name of Irish origin, derived from the surname Magee or Maguie, itself originating from the Norman French word 'Mahieu', meaning 'mighty in battle'. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Maggie is a charming and popular given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname Magee or Maguie, which in turn comes from the Norman French word 'Mahieu', meaning 'mighty in battle'. The name has been used as both a given name and a surname for centuries. The use of Maggie as a given name became more widespread in the 19th century, particularly among Irish immigrants in North America. It was often used as a diminutive form of Margaret or Marguerite, but it soon gained popularity as an independent name in its own right. Maggie is also associated with several notable figures throughout history. For instance, Maggie Laird was a Scottish poet who wrote under the pseudonym 'Tannahill', while Maggie Smith is a renowned British actress known for her roles in films such as "The Lady in White" and the Harry Potter series. In literature, Maggie is featured prominently in Charles Dickens' novel "David Copperfield", where she appears as the protagonist's childhood friend. More recently, Maggie Gilkeson was the protagonist of Cormac McCarthy's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "The Road". Despite its Irish roots, Maggie has been embraced by many different cultures around the world. It continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a name that is both strong and feminine, reflecting its original meaning of 'mighty in battle'. Today, Maggie remains a beloved name that evokes warmth, familiarity, and a touch of Irish charm.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Maggie since 1880

Total births
120,964
Total since 1880
Peak year
2007
1,874 births
in 2023
974
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-3%
vs previous 5 years