Mary
Girl name · 2,687 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Mary: 2,687 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 200 births in 1974.
Mary is a name of profound biblical heritage, deriving from the Hebrew *Miriam*, with its exact meaning still debated—often given as "beloved," "bitter," or "rebellious." Its most famous bearer is the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus, making it a cornerstone of Christian tradition. Notable historical figures include Mary, Queen of Scots, whose tumultuous life continues to fascinate, and chemist and physicist Marie Curie (born Maria). Geographically, the name echoes in places like St Mary’s Loch in the Scottish Borders and the city of St. Marys in various English-speaking countries, though these are more dedications than direct etymological links. A popular variant across Scotland and Ireland, Mhairi (pronounced *va-ree*), offers a distinct, lyrical twist on this classic, ever-enduring name.
Girl 52 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 1974200 babies
- Latest (2025)
- #25614 babies
- Total births
- 2,687since 1974
- 5-year trend
- ▲ 10%vs prior 5y