All about the name

Rosemary

Female

« Rosemary is a Latin-derived name meaning "dew of the sea," popularized in the Middle Ages as a symbol of remembrance, often associated with the Virgin Mary, and used by notable authors like Shakespeare and Emily Brontë. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Rosemary is a name of Latin origin, derived from the Latin word "rosmarinus," which means "dew of the sea." It is believed to have been coined by the ancient Greeks who were impressed by the Rosemary plant's ability to thrive in harsh coastal conditions. The name Rosemary became popular during the Middle Ages when it was used as a symbol of remembrance due to its association with the Virgin Mary. The flower was often worn or given on religious holidays such as All Saints' Day and Easter, and its fragrance was said to ward off evil spirits. In literature, Rosemary has been used as a character name by several notable authors including Shakespeare, who used it in his play "Love's Labour's Lost," and Emily Brontë, who named one of the characters in her novel "Wuthering Heights" after this fragrant herb. Today, Rosemary remains a popular choice for girls' names, particularly in English-speaking countries. Despite its popularity, there are few people named Rosemary compared to other common names like Sarah or Emma. According to some sources, there were fewer than 10,000 individuals with the first name Rosemary living in the United States as of 2014. This may be due in part to the fact that many people associate the name with older generations, as it was particularly popular during the early-to-mid 20th century. Overall, Rosemary is a unique and meaningful name with a rich history behind it. Its origins can be traced back thousands of years to ancient civilizations who admired its hardiness and beauty. Today, those who bear this name carry on a tradition of strength and resilience that has been passed down through generations.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Rosemary since 1880

Total births
160,862
Total since 1880
Peak year
1947
4,542 births
in 2023
986
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+55%
vs previous 5 years