Published on
updated on
Reading 2 min.
Marie Lanen
Head of parenting sections (baby, pregnancy, family), psychology and beauty
Classic and timeless, this feminine first name has spanned the centuries. Rooted in many cultures, it symbolizes both gentleness and strength, making it a popular choice across the world. Even today, it retains unwavering popularity, whether as a first or middle name.
The name Mary is one of the most popular and iconic girls’ names around the world. Its simplicity, its sweetness and its anchoring in history make it a first name that is both traditional and timeless. Worn by queens, saints, and women of all social conditions, Mary is a first name rich in symbolism and history.
Mary, a Hebrew first name
The name Mary has its origins in Hebrew. Miriamwhich means “she who lifts up” or “loved by God”. This first name was then translated into Latin in the form of Maria before becoming Marie in Latin languages such as French.
Mary is strongly associated with the figure of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus in Christian tradition. It is undoubtedly this spiritual dimension which has contributed to the popularity of this first name, particularly in countries with a Catholic tradition. Throughout the centuries, many girls have been baptized Mary in homage to this religious figure.
Marie gave birth to many variants and compound first names. Among the best known, we find Maria, more common in Spanish-speaking and Italian countries, or Mary, very popular in English-speaking countries. Other variants like Marianne, Marina, or Myriam are also derived from Marie. In France, it is very common to associate Marie with other first names to form compound first names: Marie-Louise, Marie-Paule, Marie-Thérèse, or even Anne-Marie.
Popularity intact over the centuries
Marie is a first name that has endured through the ages without ever really going out of fashion. From the Middle Ages to the present day, it has always been common, worn by both famous and anonymous women.
In European royal families, Mary was often chosen as the primary or secondary first name. We think in particular of Marie-Antoinette, Queen of France, or Marie Stuart, Queen of Scotland, who left their mark on history. These historical figures reinforced the nobility associated with this first name.
In the 20th century, Marie reached its peak in France, particularly in the 1900s when it was given to a large majority of newborns. Although it experienced a slight decline in subsequent years, it remains popular, particularly as a middle or compound first name (as in Marie-Claire or Marie-France).
Mary in 2024
Nowadays, although Marie is sometimes perceived as a “classic” first name, it continues to appeal to many families. Its sober elegance and its historical and spiritual heritage make Marie a timeless choice. Even though it is more often used as a middle name, it retains a special place in the hearts of parents.
In 2022, Marie remained in the top 100 female first names in France, demonstrating its endurance in the face of changing fashions. In addition, it has this rare ability to adapt to the times and to match different styles of first names, which explains its longevity.
Slide: Our top 40 sweet and romantic names for a girl