Mary: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days celebrate the feast day associated with a patron saint or religious figure sharing the name, often substituting or complementing a birthday celebration in various cultures. The name Mary possesses an origin rooted in ancient Hebrew, often associated with concepts of belovedness or excellence. In the United States, this name is a classic historical cornerstone, maintaining long-term traditional popularity and elegance. Its mood is defined by timeless elegance and quiet strength, reflecting its profound cultural weight. Furthermore, Mary's name day is widely celebrated, observed on dates like August 15th in the USA and September 8th in Ukraine.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Mary's name day is celebrated
on August 15 in Greece, Norway and the USA and
September 8 in Ukraine.
The Story Behind This Name
The name Mary holds a prominent place in American naming history, often considered a bedrock classic. For decades, particularly throughout the early to mid-20th century, Mary consistently ranked as the most popular female name in the United States. Its peak enduring popularity reflects deep cultural acceptance and tradition within American society. While its ranking has dropped significantly in recent years, it remains a well-recognized and highly respected traditional choice. Its consistent historical usage makes it a benchmark name against which modern trends are measured.
Name origin and meaning
The name Mary ultimately derives from the ancient Hebrew name Miryam, which has debated linguistic roots among scholars. One widely accepted interpretation suggests a meaning related to 'beloved' or 'wished-for child.' Another significant etymological theory connects it to Egyptian roots, possibly meaning 'sea of bitterness' or 'rebelliousness.' However, it is most often popularly associated with the idea of 'excellence' or 'exalted one' through later linguistic interpretations. This rich heritage ties Mary to deep historical texts and foundational cultures of the Western world.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Globally, Mary is overwhelmingly classified and used as a traditional feminine name, recognized as a classic female identifier across Western cultures. This name is one of the most powerful examples of a gender-specific appellation worldwide. While usage as a middle name for males occasionally occurs historically in specific European regions, such as Ireland, this practice is rare and generally confined to specific family traditions. Therefore, in the modern context and general usage across countries, Mary is firmly established as exclusively a female name. Its strong association with traditional femininity ensures its continued strict gender classification.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
The name Mary carries a distinguished and timeless mood, suggesting both strength and profound elegance. It projects a tone that is simultaneously gentle and resilient, avoiding modern frivolousness or playful connotations. The traditional nature of the name evokes a sense of reliability, wisdom, and comforting familiarity. It has an established, refined personality that feels deeply grounded in history and cultural weight. This classic simplicity provides a respectable and enduring vibe in any setting.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Mary
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 3 – The Communicator.
Keywords: Creativity, joy, social expression, charisma, inspiration.
Positive Traits: Artistic, optimistic, outgoing, charming, entertaining.
Challenges: Can be superficial, scattered, or struggle with focus and discipline.
Life Path Meaning: A life of creative expression, communication, and optimism.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 8 - The Achiever.
Traits: Ambitious, goal-oriented, authoritative, financially focused.
Strengths: Strong leadership, good at managing money, disciplined.
Challenges: Can be materialistic, dominant, or overly focused on success.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Jupiter - Expansion, Luck, Wisdom.
Jupiter is the planet of abundance, wisdom, and higher learning. Names ruled by Jupiter are often linked to individuals with a strong sense of optimism, generosity, and a love for adventure. These names carry a vibration of success, good fortune, and the pursuit of knowledge. People with Jupiter-ruled names often have a philosophical mindset and a natural ability to inspire others.
Name days: Name Mary
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 Greece | August | 15 | Crystal, Despina, Marcy, Maria, Marios, Mary, Panagiota, Panagiotis, Simela |
 Norway | August | 15 | Margot, Marielle, Mary |
 USA | August | 15 | Madonna, Malia, Mara, Maria, Mariah, Marian, Mariana, Maribel, Marie, Marisa, Marissa, Maritza, Marla, Mary, Maryann, Mimi, Miriam, Mitzy, Molly, Napoleon, Polly |
 Ukraine | September | 8 | Maria, Mary |
Name days: Similar names (Mary)
Here you’ll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 Poland | March | 3 | Asteriusz, Hieronim, Kunegunda, Lucjola, Maryna, Wierzchosława |
| Ukraine | March | 12 | Maryna |
| Greece | May | 19 | Magdalini, Markella, Marylena, Menandrios, Patrick |
| USA | June | 1 | Brigham, June, Junella, Marilee, Marilou, Marilu, Marilyn, Marylynn |
| Poland | July | 30 | Abdon, Julia, Julita, Ludmiła, Maryna, Ubysław |
| USA | August | 30 | Raisa, Rhoda, Rosa, Rosabelle, Rosalie, Rosalind, Rosalinda, Rose, Roseanne, Rosemary, Rosetta, Rosie |
Mary A Name of Timeless Tradition
As a profoundly traditional name, Mary’s history in the USA showcases unparalleled enduring popularity throughout the 20th century. Its linguistic origin points toward venerable meanings such as 'beloved' or 'exalted one.' The mood associated with Mary is one of dignified simplicity and resilience, grounding its classic feminine identity globally. Celebrations of the name day occur across various regions, linking the name to important dates, notably August 15th in many Western countries and September 8th in Eastern European traditions. This combination solidifies Mary’s status as a foundational female name of historical and cultural significance.
When Is Your Name Day?
Discover your name day quickly and easily with our name day search tool. Simply enter your name in the search box below, and you'll instantly see the exact date of your name day celebration. Find out when to celebrate and never miss a special occasion!
