Mary Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Mary
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name MARY. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Mary
Gender
Female
Origin
Christian
Lucky Number
3
Meaning of the Name
Mary means 'bitter' and is a variant of Miriam. In Christian tradition, it is most famously associated with the mother of Jesus Christ.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Jupiter
Positive Nature
Optimistic, inspirational, and creative.
Negative Traits
Scattered, exaggerating.
Lucky Colours
Yellow, gold, purple.
Lucky Days
Thursday.
Lucky Stones
Yellow sapphire.
Harmony Numbers
1, 2, 9.
Best Suited Professions
Arts, writing, communication.
What People Like About You
Creativity, optimism.
Famous People Named Mary
Mary, Mother of Jesus
Biblical Figure
Central figure in Christianity as the mother of Jesus Christ
Mary I of England
Monarch
First queen regnant of England who restored Roman Catholicism
Mary Shelley
Author
Wrote Frankenstein, pioneering science fiction literature
Mary Cassatt
Artist
Prominent American Impressionist painter known for mother-child portraits
Mary Robinson
Politician
First female President of Ireland and human rights advocate
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
The name's influence extends beyond Christianity into general Western culture, where it became so common that phrases like 'Mary Jane' and 'Bloody Mary' entered common parlance. In many Catholic countries, Mary remains the preeminent female name, with numerous feast days and Marian devotions celebrating her role. The name's enduring popularity reflects its deep roots in religious tradition while maintaining cultural relevance across centuries. The creation of names like Dolores (referencing Mary's sorrows) and Mercedes (referencing Mary's mercies) demonstrates how deeply Marian devotion has influenced naming practices globally.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Mary are often perceived as traditional, compassionate, and reliable. The name carries connotations of maternal warmth, moral strength, and quiet dignity, influenced by the biblical figure's portrayal. Many Marys are seen as nurturing figures who prioritize family and community, embodying qualities of patience and self-sacrifice. These associations create expectations of kindness and stability in personal relationships.
Despite these traditional associations, Marys often demonstrate remarkable resilience and inner strength. The name's historical bearers include queens, revolutionaries, and pioneering artists who broke societal norms. This creates a complex personality profile where traditional values coexist with determined independence. Marys are frequently described as having strong moral compasses while being adaptable to changing circumstances, combining conventional wisdom with practical problem-solving abilities that serve them well in both personal and professional contexts.
Modern Usage & Popularity
Mary remains a classic name that has maintained steady usage despite fluctuations in popularity trends. While it no longer dominates naming charts as it did in the early 20th century when it was consistently among the top names, it continues to be chosen by parents seeking a traditional, timeless name with strong religious and cultural roots. In recent decades, Mary has seen a decline in the top baby name rankings but maintains presence as a middle name and in religious communities. The name's versatility allows it to work well in both formal and casual contexts, and it pairs effectively with more modern middle names. Current usage trends show Mary being favored by parents who appreciate its historical significance and cross-cultural recognition, ensuring its continued relevance in the 21st century.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Mary symbolizes purity, motherhood, compassion, and divine grace in Christian tradition. The name represents the ideal of selfless love and spiritual devotion, often associated with protection and intercession. Beyond religious contexts, Mary embodies traditional feminine virtues while also representing strength in adversity, as evidenced by the many influential women who have borne this name throughout history. The name carries connotations of reliability and timeless values, making it symbolic of enduring principles in a changing world. In broader cultural terms, Mary represents the everywoman while simultaneously embodying extraordinary spiritual significance, creating a powerful symbolic duality that has resonated across cultures and centuries.