Mary

Kind of whimsical in the bible but does kind of have a good vibe to it. I also think the information about Mary Yates, who I have never heard of, should be deleted from this site, because child abuse really is too disturbing to read about, even if people don't intend any harm when posting it.

So, I think this name is kinda lame. If u have this name ur either rly pretty or rly ugly. It’s lowkey a gay name too. I think if u have this name ur prop a weirdo. I also don’t know why anybody would name their kid this anymore.

It’s a meh name but I cant imagine anyone in 2024 named Mary.

I heard of a two year old Mary Margaret. I found it very sweet and refreshing.

Love this. I’m not religious, I just find it very classic and pretty. I like Mary Rose, Mary Elizabeth, Mary Grace and Mary Sara.

Personally I just think this is one of the most lame and generic names out there.

I never liked this name too much. I see how it could be cute or sweet and cheery like the word merry. It’s warm and almost a little bold and robust.

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However, I don’t like the religious connotations (Mother of Jesus). I usually imagine Mary as someone that is super passive and weak or an old lady.

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I do love Maria despite it being overused. I also like Marie, my middle name. However, SO MANY girls in my generation have the same middle name Marie!

Ugh I hate this name. First off, Mary is the most delicate name ever. Every Mary is probably very sensitive. This name went from an overused name to a name for 50-100 year olds. Even the versions Marie and Maria sound dated. Now you are probably going to be like “That’s not true! Those are classics” however I don’t care. It’s hard for me to picture those names on KIDS! When we conclude this, PEOPLE WHO NAME THEIR KIDS MARY OR ANY VERSION OF IT ARE A BUNCH OF FREAKS WHO ONLY CARE ABOUT OLD NAMES! UGH!

We aren’t freaks, we just like the idea of a name that has been around for many centuries (it is also easy to spell and say).

Dull name.

A beautiful, sweet, underused classic that needs a comeback! Imagine a little Mary now….

Beautiful and classic name people may see it as "old and boring' but in my opinion this is one of those names that will never be out dated.

I really love this name, but it does (kind of) rhyme with my surname. So, if my kid were to ever take my surname…that would suck. Mary is gorgeous and timeless; I definitely recommend it!

I think this name is so beautiful and sweet!

This is my name. I presume you can grasp an idea of my opinions about it from my username alone. There's simply nothing exciting, just bland, and basic. It's more of a goodgirl, pure and holy name which is always associated with religion. Very common as well.

A great name. Mary Raven would be a really cool slightly gothic name.

Such a pretty, classic girl's name.

In my opinion, the name Mary is neither boring nor overused. I like the name Mary. Mary is a classic name. 7/10.

Sad to see this, and John on the boy side of things, fading. In my mind, it ought to be a "timeless" name not an "old-fashioned" one. Perpetual Top 15-25 kind of name. But it's not even in the top 100 anymore. I hope Mary can make a comeback soon.

Shame this good name is no longer fashionable. I don't think it's dull or boring because it's simple but its simplicity gives it its good nature.

This is a name that commands great respect. It makes me think of a woman who is caring, but will put up with crap from nobody.

My name is Mary and I just love hearing my name around the world. I also love knowing that others have the name. I got my name from my grandma but she has passed away. We miss her so much but we get through it.

Mary is a timeless, yet common feminine name. Other good alternative names include Maria and Marie.

A DARLING little name, just perfect. Very English. I love Maria and Mary equally but Mary is a little more humble and understated - I picture it on a sweet faced scullery maid in Georgian era England, Maria is more romantic and international. Both utterly gorgeous in their own ways.

I respectfully disagree that this name is dying out. It's still in the top 150 names. Mary is less popular than before, but not gone. When it leaves the top 1000, it will be gone. The name is still popular among Catholics.

A simple and beautiful name in itself, but also the name of the Mother of God, so it has a beauty, importance and power that goes beyond any other female name. Whether you spell it Mary, Maria, or Marie, I love it!

Absolutely gorgeous. Mary is a beautiful name. It's beautiful, classic, timeless and lovely. I love it so much. ❤❤.

Mary is such a nice classic name! I love the combos Mary-Rose and Mary-Jane.

I don't really like the name but it's an okay name I guess, but I prefer Marie better!

A few months ago I left a comment from different account expressing my hatred for this name. I have since changed my mind. I no longer HATE Mary. I do dislike it though. It's kind of just plain, dull, and boring in my opinion, and while I would hate to have this name, that does not mean everyone would. Mary is just a fine name. It's surely dated, that's okay. I know a young Mary who wears this name pretty well. If you like this name, give it to your child. There isn't anything wrong with it. You don't have to agree with my opinion though. :)

I think it's classic, and sounds sweet and soft.

I'm a Mary. I grew up being called by my first and middle name, Mary Helen, by family. In school and as an adult I use Mary. There were times I thought it was plain. In my 30s I revised a nursery rhyme and my tagline became:

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Mary, Mary quite contrary,
No longer plain and ordinary!

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I usually only meet other women around my age named Mary. I was born in 1958 and my dad just liked the name. No religious connection.

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Now I feel it is a unique name.

It might be literally the most common name amongst women in the U.S., but it's actually pretty underused nowadays. I know 3 Marias, 2 Maryams, 2 Maries, a Miriam, a Marianne, and a Mary Kate, but not a single person whose name is simply Mary.

It’s very boring now and does not need a comeback at all. This name has lost its charm how many years ago? Why not Marika or Marie as a first name or something, names with more personality.

Mary would be utterly a-d-o-r-a-b-l-e on a little girl today. So underused and definitely due a comeback :)

Marry me Mary!

I personally heavily prefer Maria and Marie.

Personally, I hate this name. My great grandmother is named Mary, and she always hated the name, so she ended up going by Wylene (her middle name) instead. Now, this name is fine for an older woman in her 50's-90's, but I can't imagine a young girl named Mary. In fact, I looked through my brothers' elementary school yearbook from 2020-2021, and there was not a single child named Mary. If you are considering this name for your child, here are some reasons not to use it:
1. It is plain, dull, and boring
2. It is old-fashioned and will look dated on a a young child. It was popular a hundred years ago, but that doesn't mean it is now
3. If your child ends up not following Christianity, they may not like having a biblical name.
If you like this name, then maybe consider using Marie, May/Mae, or Molly. Now, if you like this name, or it is your name, then that's fine. I just don't really like it. I'm only 13, so don't take what I say too seriously. If you like this name, then use it.

Boring and outdated name. Seriously, a name that has been 1 in the US for literal DECADES can't stay fresh for long. Although the name itself is okay, and I can partially understand people liking it. But please don't give this name to a boy. They'll get laughed at constantly.

Simple, yet very nice.

Wonderful! I do like Marie because it's more Now-a-days but Mary is wonderful as well!

Mary is such a cool name on an edgy girl. Hendrix howled “The Wind Cries Mary”... Because it’s not as common now, it’s even more so. Elegant and classic, mother of God.

Very dated and B O R I N G.

I like the sound, but I like the spelling "Mari" more.

Prefer Maria and Marie.

Dated!

Classic but overused and boring name.

Mary is an elegant, simple, classic name. I think of Lady Mary from Downton Abbey. Mary is well out of the top 100 now for baby girls. It is a lovely choice, but not an obvious one.

Lovely name, don't meet many little Marys now, I adore Maria and Mariya as well.

Myra and Mary would make good twins.

It's classic beauty in a simple name.

Classy, and elegant. Wouldn’t use it though.

So plain, overused, and extremely dated!

Mary. She is the Mother of God. Yes she is the Mother of Jesus, but Jesus IS God. For that reason I like the name. And it isn't overused.

Mary is an absolutely beautiful name. ❤️.

I like the name Mary a lot and it is not really going extinct in the US. It is just going on a much needed hiatus after decades of it being overused. Now you are more likely to encounter a girl with a different name than you are with this beautiful classic. :)

Mary is such a classy and sophisticated name. Truly timeless. It works with a middle name and without one, works with most surnames as well. Sounds so elegant but still refined. Heartbroken that this name is sadly dying out in the US. I guess it ran its course. What a pity.

This name is really popular. It was one of the most used names for many decades, always on top. However, despite being overused, Mary is a classic, great name. Just a good quality name. Simple elegance!

Typical 50-70 year old lady.

Mary is a classic, it is also elegant and beautiful.

I understand where some of the other comments are coming from when they say that Mary is a pretty simple, too common and an old-fashioned name, but you can't deny that there's something special about timelessly classic names, such as Mary. I mean, they're classics for a reason. It's honestly amazing to think how this name is still around today, even after some 2,000 years of usage! It says something about the name and how beloved it is. I know that it may seem overused, but it's had a somewhat slight decline in recent years, and I think it would be very sweet to meet a little girl named Mary in our current era. Or even a teenager, or young adult. Just because it's a common name doesn't lessen its worth. Besides, names that are popular today will probably only have their peak for so long, whereas Mary has been around for many centuries and generations.
I must say that the meanings “rebellion” and “sea of bitterness” are quite unfortunate and rather sad, as I do believe the meaning of a name is important. However, “wished for child” is a much more beautiful and pleasant meaning. Also, when most people think of the name (or at least I do), they probably think of the respected and beloved Virgin Mary. That being said, a lot of females with the name Mary were likely given that name in honor of her, which, in my opinion, adds to the beauty of the name.
Overall, I think Mary is a very sweet and timeless name.

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God bless you.

I can't stand it. Too many girls named Mary.

I know WAY too many Mary’s in their 50s & 60s to even consider this name!

I love it. The meanings are great. Plus there is the Blessed Virgin Mary to consider... :)

I love this beautiful and classic name. Much like the name "John," it has a reputation for being generic and plain. However, it hasn't been overused in a long time. I'd even say that a young girl with the name "Mary" today will probably stand out a bit, although I wouldn't describe the name as "old-fashioned" by any stretch of the imagination.

Very plain, boring name. I know of probably 20-30 Mary’s between the age of 50 & 70!

Mary is such a boring name.

Mary is okay, but like, really? Can't you do better? Nowadays, I would pick a name like Marie, which is much more fashionable. No offense to the name Mary, and as other people have said, can't we move on to new names? Mary has lots of lovely equivalents people!

Mary has got to be one of the blandest names ever. I mean, at least Emily and Jane are pretty, but Mary just leaves a bad taste in my mouth. It just sounds so unpleasant. It's time to move on, people.

When I was a little child in school there were 3 other Marys in my class, Mary Jane, another Mary Jane who went by Jennie, and a Mary Anne who went by Mayme. This name was very popular when I was born, but I still called myself Mary rather than my much more uncommon middle name of Laverne or some other nickname as I feel like it didn't suit me, but it did get annoying at times when 4 other Marys responded to "Mary". Unlike when I was born this name is fairly rare nowadays, so I don't think that Mary is going to be confused with another Mary. I personally feel like Mary is a wonderful name as it is short, simple, easily recognizable, and it is the name of the Virgin Mary. Thanks for reading what I feel about Mary :)

I think this name is best when paired with another name as a second first name. Like Mary Catherine, Mary Clare, Mary Grace, Mary Elle, something like those.

Yuck! I am SO OVER THIS NAME!

I love the name Mary! It's classic, timeless, and so beautiful.

Mary is very pretty, but I don't think it fits with my surname. :( Maria works better with my surname.

A lovely name.

I love Mary, but I love Maria more. :D.

I think Mary is the most beautiful name in the world and quite possibly the most beautiful sound ever. I don't know why I love this name so much but I can't imagine a more beautiful name than Mary. I'm so happy when I meet a girl named Mary. Especially if she's a redhead. I've always loved redheads named Mary and I have no idea why, to me if you have red hair and your name is Mary, you're perfect. I wish this name was as common as people seem to think it is.

Mary is quite nice, but I prefer Marie or Maria.

I think this name is very pretty and sweet. It’s too bad it’s not as favorable anymore, considering the association with old ladies. But, I expect it will become popular again in about 30 years and be considered “retro” or something like that. I know four Marys who are all members of Gen Z.
I think this name goes well with any middle name. I know a few Mary Catherines and Mary Annes, but I also like Mary Emma, Mary Margaret, Mary Ava, Mary Ella, etc. I love this name!

Such a classy and distinguished name for females! It’s common, but not as common as John’s use as a man’s name. Mary is still quite a popular and trendy girl’s name because of its meaning behind the name. It’s beautiful, elegant, and noble for girls! It’s often used as a middle name, particularly when spelt Marie. So this would be more unique as a first name, whether it's being spelt Marie OR Mary. I love the name Mary for a girl, even though I wouldn’t use it! This name does have some rare masculine usage from the past, but would you name a boy Mary because of that? I know I wouldn’t!

A lovely classic. I also love the Arabic form Mariam. (Mariam is such a common name in my area.)

It's a pretty and classic name. I disagree with it being overused- maybe it has been in the past, but it's not used very much anymore. I've met only one girl named Mary.

Pretty, but overused and bland.

I think Mary is a great name. My best friend is named Mary. She is awesome and she loves her name. It is biblical and is shared with the mother of Jesus.

Bland.

It's a cute name, very classic and old fashioned but timeless, not overly sexy but not unsexy either, just cute and friendly. On the other hand, it's the perfect name for a red-haired girl, and it's the most beautiful name in the world when a redhead has it. I don't know why but I'm instantly attracted to any redhead named Mary. No exceptions. If you're a woman, if you have red hair and your name is Mary, I have a crush on you. If you have that winning combination, flaunt your beautiful red hair and flaunt your beautiful name. Most likely it's because to me, I associate the name "Mary" with a beautiful redhead who loves to smile and never stops smiling no matter what, the type of girl that manages to be both cute and hot at the same time.

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So overall, I find the name cute and timeless but under the right circumstances I also think it's the most beautiful name in the world.

It’s old fashioned. It’s a little plain and a little overused, but it still has a nice, classic sound.

This name has been used for a long time and has been widely accepted by many people.

This name is supercallifragilisticexpialidocious! It just reminds me or Mary Poppins and to me, it's a nice name. It could sound calm, intelligent, elegant and beautiful, but it could also sound fun, bubbly, and playful.

I love the name Mary! It’s so beautiful and elegant sounding! It’s just as pretty as Marie! This name is timeless and I see how popular it can be! That’s because it’s a pretty name! But I love it best as a middle name, but it’s okay as a first name!

It’s grown on me over the years.

Never liked it much due to overuse, however I liked one derivative of it and that is Marijo.

THE MOST BORING NAME! Way too common and not even pretty. Just uggghhh!

I have never, ever liked this name. It’s not only boring and way too common, but it’s also neither pretty to read nor hear. “Marie” is a lot prettier and more exotic.

Boring, and probably THE most common/overused female name of all time.

Mary will always have a special place in my heart. To me, the name is so classic and meaningful that it can never be overused and outstay its welcome.

Mary is overused and typical.

Reminds me of someone who is slim, cute and graceful. Mary is a beautiful name.

This name is actually quite uncommon nowadays. It's a lovely, modest and feminine name. Plus, it fits all age groups well. You can't go wrong with Mary.

Although it certainly is used quite a lot, I love the namesakes of the Virgin, an extremely important figure in Christianity, and Mary Magdalene, the first witness of the resurrection. However, due to its popularity (though it is declining), if I was using it as a namesake, I would use a different form, as a middle name, or, if it's for Mary Magdalene, Magdalena/Magdalene.

This is a classic and recognizable name. I think it's very pretty, and not too dated- it's adorable on a little girl, and smart and classy on a full grown woman.

I have a Great x 2 grandmother called Mary so I have a soft spot for this name, even though I don't like names as religious as this.

Mary Rose is the name of a rollercoaster at Alton Towers.

My middle name is Mary. I really like this pretty, feminine name. It is extra special to me as I was given this name in honor of my paternal grandmother. I think it is a timeless classic.

It's too plain, simple, old-fashioned, and boring.

Mary is a beautiful name. I think of a devout, consecrated young lady, even spirited and strong-willed to stand by what is right.

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The name 'Merry' would be a lovely twist on the traditional spelling, too.

Very pretty name, it has always been very common.

My mother's name and my least favorite name ever. It's boring, over used, and goody-goody.

How about:
Mary-Jo, Mary-Rose, Mary-Ellen, Mary-Ann, Mary-Jane, Mary-Joy, Mary-Beth, etc.
Mary is a little simple and boring. Marie, all though over used as a middle name, is a fairly uncommon name. Maria is nice too.
If you add another name it's fine.

Eh. It's not a bad name by any means, it's just extremely boring and not very pretty. I prefer Marie or Maria.

I had an old friend that named her daughter Mary. I feel like Mary is a much more unique and refreshing name because it is not used as much, rather than these trendy or unique names. But each to his/her own.

It is simple, but good name for girls only. It looks nice with a suffix-name after. Mary-Anne, Mary-Rose, Mary-Grace, etc. Terrible for boys, sweet and pretty on girls. I imagine a creative, smart girl.

I used to not think much of this name, but it's really grown on me. I love it as a middle name for Charlotte.

An ugly name overused by snobby Middle American Catholics. As a former Catholic, I can tell you that this name isn't very good and most of the women with this name are Republicans.

Not only is Mary often a family name, it is the name of generations of wonderful women spanning generations from biblical times until now. At Christmastime, when carols are sung and readings are read, the name Mary is lovingly celebrated. It is plain, but this is a name with strength and beauty in its simplicity. Never underestimate a Mary. She will be intelligent, kind, passionate and loyal. She will become a loving mother and your longest, most loyal friend.

Very boring, plain jane kind of name... sorry.

It's shocking and kind of sad to see that the name Mary isn't being used very much anymore. It's a really great name and it's sad that people are naming their children other confusing, weird names over such a great classic like this. I would love to name my daughter Mary if I ever have one, especially since it is not as popular anymore and there won't be very many people with her name anymore; it'll be unique, but normal, and be beautiful all at the same time.

I don't think it's plain or boring at all! It is very old and has a lot of history to it! I only know of two Mary's. One of which comes from a very religious family (explaining their name choice) and one I go to school with. And I think she is the only Mary in the school. I'd much rather see Mary's than so many Ashley's, Alison's, or Emily's, although those are lovely names as well.

Very plain and dull name I think.

Mary is not overused at all. I do not personally know any Mary's. But to embellish it, you could add a name after it like Mary Kate. My sister's name is Mary Jane and we call her MJ. It is a totally unique name, but marijuana references by random people have been a problem. Nonetheless, Mary Jane is awesome and different!

I love this name. It is not overused anymore and has become unique. Mary- it sounds so pretty.

The name Mary is amazing and beautiful. I love how it's the name of Jesus's mother. The name Mary definitely deserves to be used more! :)

Totally boring now. I bet every girl named Mary would claim that she was named after her grandmother.

I grew up with all the jokes about "Mary." So, I hated it. However, now that I am older (47), I embrace it, and prefer using Mary Elizabeth, (my middle name). As I learned my family tree, I really embraced it. Lol lol :)

I guees the name is kinda dull and boring... though it is the name I was supposed have. Not named Rose... my dad wanted to name me after my grandmother who passed away of cancer many years before I was born... what's creepy about all this is that I'm the grandchild that was named after her, and I look so much like her that it's just creepy, people who knew her say I'm like her somewhat...

I ADORE this name, and will definitely name one of my children Mary.

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It's so pure, and short and sweet. It's got a very cute sound to it, in my opinion. I like Mary Frances as a name :)

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I've only known one Mary my age, so it's not at all popular in this generation!

Growing up in Scotland, the only time I heard the name 'Mary' was in relation to someone else's grandmother, so it surprises me to learn 'Mary' is considered popular. I always thought of it as very old-fashioned when I was young (I'm 40 yrs old) but I have to say that when people learn my name they frequently comment on how lovely it is. It's better than my middle name: Hilda. Now THAT name was a constant source of embarrassment and still is; I seldom use it when filing in forms, etc.
Anyway, I could change my name if I wanted to and the fact that I haven't means I'm not that bothered and I'll be 'Mary' until I die. By the way, the negative comments about my name made me laugh; we Mary's have a wicked sense of humor. Innocent? Ha!

I love this name! But for some reason, it seems that EVERYONE has an Aunt Mary. I have three: Mary Heath, Mary Reaves, and Mary Livingstone. I know about six or seven other people who have an Aunt Mary, too. Also, this was the name of my paternal grandma, though she went by her middle name, Suzanne. I'm really fond of this name and I intend to name one of my daughters this in the future, but I must admit that most of the reason for that is to honor my Aunt Mary (Livingstone, that is!).

I used to think this was a boring name, and preferred Marie or Miriam to Mary. Recently, I have started to see how lovely Mary is-she is timeless, and goes with so many other names. Long live Mary!

I actually have never met anyone named Mary, which I find kind of sad, considering it was so popular for so long. I don't see anything wrong with naming your daughter Mary, especially nowadays when there are so many awful names being thought up. Mary would be a nice break from all that, I think :)

This name is kind of like Rose. A lot of different names have been added to the end of it to create new names. (Mary Jane, Marianne,, Marilyn, Mary Kate, Mary Jo, Mary Lou...)

I like the Virgin Mary, but this name is a little plain. It is far from ugly, but it would make a nice middle or Confirmation name.

It's a good name. But because "Mary" by itself means the Blessed Virgin Mary (in my family), I'd use it as a double name - Mary-Anna, Mary Sophia, Mary Madeline, etc.

Nice name, but boring and overused.

A good name to honour a child with, and not as fancy as Marie or Maria, although they are nice names too.

Despite the extreme overuse, this name stays classic, to me at least, because it sounds timeless and now that it is becoming less common, maybe will regain some of the freshness it lost in the last one hundred years or so. It reminds me of a sweet little girl with braids, though this may have something to do with the fact I love Mary Pickford-another reason I don't think it's plain or boring.

Ugh, Mary. It's been popular for, like, ever. Hasn't anyone gotten tired of hearing it?

I love the name Mary! It sounds very pretty.

Mary is a very reserved sort of name, one that you have to consider carefully. Not just because of the Virgin Mary, the most obvious reason, but it has a very kind and caring feel to it. So it seems like the sort of name that adopted girls have, because you have to be kind and caring to adopt a child.

My name's Mary, & I can't put into words how much I hate that name and have always hated having it! The uber commonplaceness of it, makes me feel totally anonymous, and I just feel that my parents didn't describe me as anything but a typical person on the street, and that having this name contributes to me giving that impression to people - particularly, those who like the name Mary, who are always ultra commonplace people I feel an immediate revulsion towards! I am an original, sensitive and talented person, but Mary suggests just the opposite of that - all commonplace names suggest to me typical people, and that gives connotations of being undistinguished, untalented, uncreative, insensitive, cruel, crass - to sum up undesirably inferior and mundane - and also, to choose a commonplace name doesn't suggest imagination, so people often believe since your parents were obviously unimaginative, you must be the same. Mary is chosen as the typical name on the census, then time and again, as the first name for a typical person in scenarios in non-fiction books - it's very depressing for somebody who yearns to feel special. It's association with the mother of God also isn't very flattering, because pregnancy isn't essentially pretty - who thinks of a mother when they think of a pretty girl - rather, to be mumsy is to wear an apron and be plain! I think everyone deserves to feel special, and be honoured as an individual who belongs to a particular parent or family, not just to the sea of mass humanity - so I hope this very plain name has had it day.

Giving you the name Mary was probably the best gift your parents ever gave you, as it associated you with ideals and personages far greater than you'll ever probably be able to aspire to. Mary is the 109th most popular name in 2010. That's hardly commonplace. I gather that you'd prefer to be named Kaylee or Keeley or Madison or one of the other trashy, fake names that every other trashy airhead is named these days. I bet that would make you feel real special, huh?

I really like Mary - it's a very sweet name. I'm a big fan of Mary as a double first name - Mary Jane, Mary Beth and Mary Kate are my favourites.

I think it's creepy. Like a mean-old-witch-down-the-street name. When I picture it on a teen, I see a not-well-liked shy girl with glasses who's into secret occult practices, and on a little girl I think of a child who wears white Victorian dresses and plays with weird-looking dolls. I much prefer the alternatives Marie (mer-REE) or Maria.

It's a simple name, but it's so pretty! I love the combination Mary-Jane, but everyone would think you named her after the Spiderman character.

My impression of this name is that it's kind of like Sarah. It's nice, not a fad name, and can fit anybody. But still very overused.

To the person who said they couldn't think of any nicknames: I have an older cousin, Mary Theresa, and we call her Marsey (MER-zee). :-)

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But anyway, I think Mary is a very pretty name, and definitely not "overused" (I've only met one other person my age--18--with this name). I'd say Maria is far more common. But if I were to ever use the name Mary, her middle name would have to be Jane.

I really do hate this name, and if you are planning on naming your daughter this, I beg you to reconsider.

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Whenever I hear the name "Mary" it conjures up two images for me. I honestly think of these things:
1. A sickly, geriatric ewe with short fleece and dags around its behind (no doubt because of the nursery rhyme "Mary had a Little Lamb", only my mind distorts it to a more sinister creature)
2. Mary Bennet, from Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice". ENOUGH SAID.

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There is nothing more repugnant than the name Mary. Do not fool yourself: it is not pretty, it is not dainty and feminine. It is weak, whingey and terribly archaic. I must confess I don't like Maria or Marie either, though they are slightly more tolerable than plain old "Mary".

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I'm sorry if your name is Mary or Maria or Marie or any name similar to these. I'm sure you're a lovely person who thinks your name quite becoming, but I could never find any beauty in your name so as to give it to a child, a pet or a character in a story even.

Why does everybody have to be so hard about this name? I'm a bearer of this name (it's my first name) and I admit, I don't like it much but I feel terribly upset about all of people saying this name is a horrible just because it's roughly translated as "bitterness". I'm called Mary-Amanda and I'm not bitter (I can be on occasions) but that doesn't mean I'm a horrible person.

In my opinion, although this name may still be on the popular side because of all the Marys who were named when this name was more popular- and although it may also be on the plain side- this name is absolutely beautiful in all its simplicity. Plus, I've only known ONE Mary who's relatively around my age, and she seems nice. I much prefer this name to all it's variants: Marie, Maria, etc. And what name could ask for a better bearer? As a Roman Catholic, Mary the Blessed Mother plays a big role in my faith.

Mary is really a beautiful name, but I cannot think of any nicknames for it! I would use this as a middle name rather than a first name.

One of the first "classic" girls' names. I think it's beautiful and probably rarer now than it has been since Christianity came to England. There are enough variations and historical bearers to satisfy almost anybody.

Well, I think it's a beautiful name. I used to think it was hideously overused, but I don't really think it is anymore. It's got a nice, cute sound to it.

There have been some nice modern bearers of this name, unfortunately the religious connotations ruin it for me.

I like the sound of this name, but I personally find it a bit too plain.

Timeless. I wish that Mary was back in fashion over tackier stuff like Madison. I think it works especially well as a double barreled name like Mary Violet, Mary Susanah and Mary Scarlett. Beautiful!

This is my middle name, and I have to say that it embarrasses me, for people tend to think of it almost as a joke. The only other people I know with this name are my grandmothers, my mother and my elderly neighbor; The use of this name is becoming more and more sparse. It is a nice enough name, I suppose. But it's one that is picked on by today's youth.

I think that the name Mary sounds better put together with Jane. Mary Jane sounds beautiful.

I like this name, but it doesn't sound very original.

Even though it is a very popular name, and people are getting bored of it, it is my first name, and I'm proud of it, it may not be my favorite name. But I think it's kind, even if there is a bloody Mary.

I love this sweet little name called Mary! I love to pronounce it as MER-y, NOT like MEIR-y, but almost as in merry, except not two r's. It's really sweet for a little girl and on an adult as well. I really adore this sweet little name! And it's Biblical as well-you can't go with Biblical names. Mia, Maya, Jessica, Destiny, Olivia, Isabella, and Madison can pass away along with Nevaeh, but Mary lives on forever! Because Biblical names, most of them are timeless!

Ho. Hum. This name is nice but WAY to overused. It is so BORING! But I think it would make a nice middle name.

It may have been overused in the past, but now I think that it would be a good choice for a name.

Kind of like Catherine and Elizabeth, this name is a very safe choice that shouldn't lead to bullying or job discrimination. It's a name that suits little girls and grown women alike. However, it is a bit of a dull choice, and some surely name their daughters Mary for religious reasons, which looks like a sure sign that they value the poor girl's virginity more than her won wishes about her life when she's older. So, quite a few unwanted children have probably gotten this name when the parents haven't been in the mood for considering anything more than the common options. But this is a name that you can combine with other names, and there's nothing wrong with it per se.

After seeing your comments on the William and John pages, I came here to Mary specifically to see if you would make the same remark about unwanted children when it came to girls' names! Voila! Please stop believing that you can judge whether or not a child is wanted by his or her name. It's patently ridiculous. There must be many unwanted children with unusual names. Personally, I find Mary to be too generic, but I would never go on from there to say a baby named Mary is unwanted. Please stop being so insulting and accusatory towards parents of children with common names.

I love the simplicity of Mary as a first name; also, she has so many lovely nicknames that you can call her by.

This name has recently became one of my favorites! It's great for a middle name and I really want to honor Mother Mary.

I agree that it only sounds good with long first names if being used for a middle name.

I love this name! I don't think it sounds plain at all. I think it's simple, but not plain. I love it because it's so simple but so pretty at the same time! X)

It's quite plain on its own, but I love it combined with another name - for example, Mary-Lou. Especially if the second name is something a bit unexpected instead of a standard like Mary-Anne. I also love Mary-Jane (M.J.) but I think the drug reference has kind of killed it.

It is mostly from all the wonderful namesakes and the sheer simplicity of this name that I love it. I am delighted how much it has fallen out of popularity and it's becoming a more unique and less bland name.

I prefer it used combined with a middle name. Such as Mary-Elizabeth.

My middle name, but only goes well with long first names.

The name was so common that people rejected it. Now, the name is so rare that I think it's due for a comeback. It's a winner.

A very sweet name for a girl.

I have this name and I have to say, it is a bit overused. My great-grandmother was called Mary-Edna. I was named after her in the Mary part. I remember during middle school, there were four Marys in my class other than me. I was called by my middle name, which made it even more confusing because there was two other girls named Amanda too. Lol.

Beautiful name! I will be naming my first daughter Mary Katherine. :)

I like this name. I think it's very pretty.

I dislike this name highly. It's WAY too overused. To plain for me.

My name is Mary Anna, and although I go by just Anna (to differentiate between my grandmothers, both of whom are named Mary Anne), I do like the name. It might be old-fashioned and overused, but that really shouldn't matter. Name your child whatever you want. I do admit though, that I have been jokingly refered to as "Bloody Mary" because of my fondness for bloody horror movies. There are also a few (idiotic) boys who ask me where's my little lamb. I've learned to ignore it. After seventeen years, I can ignore anything. :)

A pretty name that can also be used as a middle name.

I think the name Mary sounds plain and dull and a bit ugly. But I think it also sounds comforting and gentle, like somebody's grandma.

My name is Mary-Rose, but I tend to just go by Mary, and I've had a very happy 24 years with the name. I'd much rather be a Mary then something trashy like Madysynn.

I love the name Mary, it has a soft feel about it. I'm also Catholic which encourages me to like it even more. I think this name is great and again because I'm Catholic I have met families in which every daughter has Mary as their first name, but they go by their middle name.

Mary is technically my first name while Grace is my middle name. However, my parents never intended for me to go by "Mary", my name was "Mary Grace." I ended up going by the name "Gracie", but I think that Mary Grace is one of the prettiest names in the world and I plan on going by it as an adult.

I think that Mary as a middle name is a filler name now (like Jane or Anne). Like if they really didn't plan a middle name and didn't want her to have no middle name.

This name has been used to excess, but I still think that Mary is a lovely, wholesome, classic name. Both of my grandmothers have had a form of Mary in their names; maternal: Natalie Marie; paternal: Mary Frances. All of the few Marys that I have known have been kind people, and I have had a good impression of the name.

I hate this name. It is boring and overused. Some people think it is a good name but I think they are wrong. Very wrong. It is one of the most awful names I have ever heard of. And it doesn't help that it means sorrow or bitterness.

I know this is quite an old fashioned name, but I would definitely use it for a child today, because it's so sweet and pretty.

The name Mary is so refreshing. I have come to love this name.

I love this name. All girls are created in Her Holy Image. Sadly, this name has become extremley popular. If you like the name Mary, use a variant, like Maria, Marie, or Mairead.

I like this name because it goes with anything. You can have Mary-Jane, Jane Mary. Elizabeth Mary, Mary Elizabeth. Annabel Mary, Mary Annabel. In my opinion, THE PERFECT NAME!

Mary very well might be a bit of a plain-Jane (plain-Mary?) name, but it will forever be a classic. It's very pretty in its simplicity, and makes for a nice middle name.

I don't like the sound of this name--I much prefer Maria, which seems to be the name of every other Spanish/Hispanic woman. Tad overused ;), though wonderful all the same. However, despite my dislike of the sound, I do really like this name, because of the Blessed Mother Mary.

Personally, I do not think that the name Mary is boring or overused. I think that this name conveys a sense of gentleness and grace.

Now Mary is more commonly used as a middle name as it is rather boring. One of my sister's middle names is Mary after various older members of our family. I prefer the variations on it such as Maria, Marie, Marianna etc.

I think this name is lovely, but the only Mary I have ever met was a total spoiled brat. Left me with a bad impression. I prefer Miriam much better, less common and I like that is it the original name. I am a bit tradional!

Extremly boring name, sorry to everyone who has this name.

I have to agree, Mary is pretty but it is overused and sounds boring now.

Nice but a bit dull.

I agree this name is boring and overused. I've always thought its spelling and sound are plain and anything but special. Maria is more unique,I guess.

I think this name is boring and overused. I prefer the unique variations that have sprang from Mary, such as Marianne.