Malori is a unique and distinctive given name of Welsh origin. It is derived from the Welsh masculine name "Mallory," which itself is believed to have been derived from the Old Welsh personal name "Melior," meaning "sea-hill" or "smooth brow." This name was popular among the Welsh nobility during the Middle Ages and was often associated with strength, courage, and wisdom.
In the 18th century, Malori began to appear as a feminine given name in Wales. It is thought that this may have been due to the influence of French fashion and culture at the time, as similar-sounding names such as Malorie were popular among the French aristocracy. However, unlike many other names that have shifted gender over time, Malori has remained relatively rare for both men and women.
Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals named Malori. In Wales, Mallorie ap Griffith was a 12th-century Welsh prince who played a significant role in the rebellion against the Norman invaders. In more recent times, American actress Malorie Cowan is known for her roles in films such as "The Blind Side" and "Daddy's Home."
Today, Malori continues to be a rare but beautiful name that carries with it a rich history and cultural significance. It is often associated with uniqueness, elegance, and strength, reflecting the powerful meanings behind its origins. Whether given to a boy or girl, Malori is sure to stand out as a name that is both distinctive and steeped in tradition.
The name Malori has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States, with fluctuations in the number of births each year.
In the early 1980s, the name started to gain traction, with 10 births recorded in 1983. The following year saw an increase to 22 births, and this upward trend continued, reaching a peak of 57 births in 1987. However, the late 1980s and early 1990s saw a decline, with the number of births dropping to as low as 18 in 1989.
The decade of the 1990s was marked by a relative stability in the popularity of the name Malori. The number of births fluctuated between a low of 17 in 2002 and a high of 34 in 1998, with an average of around 25 births per year.
The 21st century has seen a continued decline in the popularity of the name Malori. After starting the millennium with 28 births in 2001, the number of births has steadily decreased to a low of just 5 births in 2018. However, there was a slight increase to 9 births recorded in 2021.
Overall, since 1983, there have been a total of 751 babies named Malori born in the United States. Despite its ups and downs in popularity, Malori remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents looking for something different.