International Variations of Margaret

Sixties-style nickname which is also the name of a small biting insect, particularly prevalent in Scotland.

An unusual and straightforward name with an attractive Scandinavian accent; a royal name in Norway.

Infrequently used relic of the Maureen-Colleen-Kathleen era, though it does seem to have a bit more energy than the others.

Reet is a feminine name with Estonian and Indian origins. In Estonian culture, it's a traditional female name derived from Margaret, meaning 'pearl.' In India, particularly in Punjab, Reet has Sanskrit origins meaning 'custom,' 'tradition,' or 'way of life.' The name gained some recognition in Western countries through jazz singer Reet Hendrikson and through the mid-20th century slang term 'reet' meaning excellent or cool. Despite its cross-cultural presence, Reet remains uncommon in English-speaking countries. The name's brevity, distinct sound, and international connections make it appealing to parents seeking a simple yet meaningful name with cultural depth.

Gretel originated as a nickname for Margarete, the German form of Margaret. It’s a charming name, but most American parents prefer Greta, as Gretel is strongly tied to the fairy tale heroine.

This is a Scandinavian variant of Margaret, and is pronounced MEH-teh or MET, rhyming with jet.

A super diminutive nickname name, and sometime Madonna nickname – it was how the British tabloids referred to her when she moved to London in the 1990s, which she found annoying until then husband Guy Ritchie said it stood for 'Your Majesty'. Madge Undersee is Katniss's best friend in The Hunger Games books.

An old royal name in England and Scotland that's also spelled Marjorie. Popular in the Middle Ages and Tudor period, it was revived at the end of the 19th century, peaked in 1921 and dropped off the list in 1958, enough time to be reconsidered as a Margaret alternative. The name Margery Daw is familiar via the seesaw nursery rhyme and Margery Williams wrote the children's classic The Velveteen Rabbit..

Gretl is a diminutive form of Margaret, used primarily in German-speaking regions, particularly Austria and Bavaria. The name derives from the Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl,' with Gretl emerging as an affectionate, familiar version. Most famously associated with the younger sister in the Von Trapp family (portrayed in 'The Sound of Music'), Gretl carries folkloric charm and Alpine cultural associations. The name has a warm, endearing quality with its compact form and distinctive ending. While uncommon outside German-speaking countries, Gretl offers an appealing alternative to the more widely used Gretel or Greta. The name evokes a sense of European heritage and traditional charm, making it attractive to parents seeking a name with cultural specificity and historical character.

Meeri is kind of like Siri with an M. This unusual name is certainly cute and intriguing but would forever be mistaken for Mary.

Marge used to be as common as Maggie or Megan, ranking on its own in the girls' Top 1000 from 1900 until right after World War II, when so many Old School names fell off the list in favor of a new generation cuter, perkier choices.

Markita is a feminine name that likely developed as a diminutive form of Mark or Margaret, with Spanish or Slavic influences. The '-ita' suffix in Spanish indicates a small or endearing version, giving the name an affectionate quality. With origins potentially connecting to Latin 'marcus' meaning 'warlike' or 'dedicated to Mars,' Markita transforms a traditionally masculine root into a distinctly feminine name. Though not among the most common names, Markita saw modest popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. The name has a rhythmic quality that feels both familiar and distinctive, appealing to parents seeking a name with cross-cultural resonance.

A simple, international name extremely popular in India. The word, meaning "song", also appears in the name of the Bhagavad Gita, a Hindu sacred text. Geeta is a spelling variant.

Prime pert-teenager name in midcentury TV shows, replaced by Maggie.

Grete is a feminine name of German origin, serving as a diminutive form of Margaret or Margareta. Derived from the Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl,' this name carries a sense of preciousness and elegance. Grete gained notable popularity in Northern European countries, particularly in Germany, Austria, and Scandinavian regions. The name experienced peak usage during the early to mid-20th century but has become less common in recent decades, giving it a vintage charm. Grete offers a distinctive alternative to more common Margaret variations, combining traditional roots with a concise, crisp sound that feels both classic and refreshing.

A diminutive diminutive, too tease-worthy.

Margrete is a feminine name of Scandinavian origin, serving as a Nordic variation of Margaret, which derives from the Greek word "margarites" meaning "pearl." This spelling is particularly common in Denmark and Norway, where it has been used by several queens and royal figures throughout history, giving it an air of elegance and nobility. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Margrete maintains steady usage in Scandinavian regions. The name combines traditional roots with a distinctive spelling that sets it apart from the more common Margaret or Margareta. Margrete carries the same timeless quality as its variants but with a distinctly Nordic flair. The name conveys strength and refinement, reflecting its royal associations while remaining accessible for contemporary use.

A jewel-encrusted choice, far more unusual than Pearl.

This Portuguese version of Marguerite, Margherita, or Margaret has a distinctive yet familiar sound and could get you to nicknames Maggie, Daisy, Margo, Ida, and Edie.