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Meggie

OriginWelsh diminutive of Margaret
Meaning"pearl"

About Meggie

Meggie is a diminutive form of Margaret, which derives from the Greek word "margarites" meaning "pearl." This affectionate nickname has a sweet, friendly quality that has made it endure through generations, though it's less common as a formal given name. Meggie gained some popularity in the English-speaking world during the 20th century, particularly after the publication of Colleen McCullough's novel "The Thorn Birds" (1977), which featured a protagonist named Meggie Cleary. The name has a youthful, energetic feel and is often associated with warmth and approachability. While not ranking high on most popularity charts as a standalone name, Meggie continues to be used as both a nickname and given name, especially in Scotland, Ireland, and other parts of the United Kingdom.

Pronounced MEG-ee.

As of October 2026, Meggie ranked #18233 in US births in 2015 SSA, peaked at #2216 in 1985.

AI-written. Reviewed by Pamela Redmond

Sources: US popularity data is from the Social Security Administration. Meanings and origins are from Nameberry's name references.

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Famous Meggies

  • Margherita Cecilia Brigida Lucia Maria "Meggie" Albanesi

    British actress

  • Meggie Meidlinger

    American female baseball player

Meggie in pop culture

  • Meggie Folchart

    character in the Inkheart Trilogy by Cornlia Funke

  • Meghann "Meggie" Cleary

    main character in Colleen McCullough's "The Thorn Birds"

  • Meggie McClaine

    character on American soap "The Young and the Restless"

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