Mary is a classic and popular female given name of Latin origin, meaning "sea of bitterness" or "rebelliousness". The name is derived from the Hebrew name Miryam, which was borne by several important women in the Bible, including Moses' sister and the mother of Jesus.
The name Mary has been widely used throughout history. It was a popular name among early Christians due to its biblical associations, and it has remained a top choice for parents in many English-speaking countries, as well as in Spain, Portugal, and other parts of Europe.
In literature and arts, Mary has been the given name of numerous notable figures, such as Mary Shelley, the author of "Frankenstein", and Mary Cassatt, a prominent American impressionist painter. The name has also been popularized through various works of fiction, including Charlotte Brontë's "Jane Eyre" and J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.
Overall, Mary is a timeless and elegant name with a rich history that continues to appeal to parents today. Its biblical origins give it a sense of reverence and tradition, while its enduring popularity makes it feel modern and fresh. Whether you're looking for a name with deep roots or one that feels familiar yet unique, Mary is an excellent choice.
The name Mary experienced significant popularity throughout much of the late 19th to mid-20th centuries, with a peak around the early 1930s, reaching as high as 340 births in 1930. However, it appears that its prevalence has greatly decreased since then, with fewer than 50 births per year occurring from the late 1980s onwards. As of 2020, Mary ranked among the least popular names for newborn girls, with only five births recorded that year.