All about the name

Mollie

Female

« Mollie is a charming and unique Irish given name, derived from the surname Ó Maolmhoda, which means 'descendant of the devotee of Mongan'. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Mollie is a charming and unique name of Irish origin, derived from the Irish surname "Ó Maolmhoda". The surname is believed to have been anglicized from the Irish Gaelic "Ó Maoil Mhóna", which translates to "descendant of the devotee of Mongan". The given name Mollie itself does not have a specific meaning or definition, as it evolved from a surname. However, some sources suggest that Mollie could be interpreted as a diminutive form of Mary, which in Latin means "sea of bitterness" or "rebelliousness", and is often associated with the Virgin Mary. The name Mollie began to appear more frequently as a given name during the 18th century, particularly in Ireland. It was traditionally used for girls, but it has also been used as a boy's name from time to time. Throughout history, several notable individuals have carried the name Mollie. One of the most famous is American actress and singer Molly Ringwald, who rose to prominence in the 1980s with roles in films such as "The Breakfast Club" and "Sixteen Candles". Another notable figure is Australian swimming champion Mollie O'Callaghan, who won a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. In popular culture, Mollie has been used as a character name in various works. For instance, it appears in Mark Twain's novel "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" and in the musical "Annie". Additionally, there is a breed of dog known as the "Mollie", which is a type of sheepdog found primarily in Australia. Overall, Mollie is a name with Irish roots that has gained popularity over time. While it may not have a specific meaning, its unique sound and charm make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Mollie since 1880

Total births
47,752
Total since 1880
Peak year
1915
738 births
in 2023
212
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-14%
vs previous 5 years