A succinct and multicultural choice, Marjan's meaning and pronunciation differs depending on which root you follow.

Derived from Maria, the meaning of which is uncertain. Theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).

Short and feminine, Ria has a rhythmic flow.

A variation of Maria and Mary, used as a diminutive in Estonia, Croatia, Macedonia, The Netherlands, and Slovenia, and occasionally as a respelling of the Irish Máire. In the first instance, it may be pronounced MA-reh, while in the latter, it may be more like MA-r(y)uh.

It could also be a form of Maren or Mairead, pronounced MEHR (like the word for a female horse).

This charming name, popular in France and the Netherlands, has not traveled to the U.S. yet but would make a modern way to honor grandma Mary or Louise, or as a perfect short form of Mary Louise. Or, with the growing fashion for nickname names, it can stand perfect well on its own. One of several similar variations — Lou, Lilou, Louane — in vogue in Europe.

Looking to honor Grandma Mary (or Maria) with something original? This Russian short form bears an unfortunate resemblance to the English word "mash", but if you can look past that, Masha has possibilities.

Both Maire and Mare have begun making inroads with parents seeking novel yet authentic ways of honoring an ancestral Mary. The Finnish variation derives from the word mairea, meaning "sweet."

Variant of Marise

A truly international name with a multitude of origins.

A less-popular alternative to Juliette, perhaps – although it feels rather more dated.

Mirjam is a feminine name representing a Central European and Scandinavian variation of Miriam, which ultimately derives from Hebrew origins. In the Bible, Miriam was Moses' sister, giving the name deep historical and religious significance. The spelling 'Mirjam' is particularly common in Germany, the Netherlands, Estonia, and across Scandinavian countries. The name carries connotations of rebellion and strength, with possible meanings including 'bitter,' 'beloved,' or 'wished-for child.' While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Mirjam maintains steady popularity in Northern and Central Europe, appreciated for its biblical roots and melodic sound.

Mirel is a sparky diminutive of Miriam, making it one of many international choices connected to the classic, Biblical Mary. Also spelled as Mirele, from this origin, it is notably used in Israel, where it leans nearly entirely feminine.

Foreign variations of Mary are definitely the way to go; this one has a nice Dutch-girl feel. It also works as a cultural crossover name, e.g. between European languages and Japanese.

Maike is a feminine name with Germanic origins, primarily used in Germany, the Netherlands, and Frisian regions. It's a variation of Maria or a diminutive of Marita or Mareike. In German usage, it's pronounced MY-keh, while Dutch speakers may say MY-kuh. The name has historical connections to traditional biblical Mary derivatives but has developed its own distinct identity in Northern European cultures. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Maike has maintained steady popularity in Germanic regions for generations. It offers a blend of traditional roots with a modern, international sound that travels well across cultures. Maike conveys a sense of strength and simplicity with its brief two syllables.

Roula is a feminine name with Mediterranean origins, particularly common in Greece and Lebanon. In Greek contexts, it often serves as a diminutive of more formal names like Paraskevi or Panagiota, while in Arabic-speaking regions, it may relate to names meaning 'spirit' or 'soul.' The name has a melodious quality with its flowing sounds and balanced syllables. Roula remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries but has established presence in Mediterranean communities worldwide. The name carries warm, friendly associations while maintaining cultural specificity. Its brevity makes it practical across language boundaries, while its distinctive character sets it apart from more common international names. Roula combines accessibility with cultural richness, making it appealing for families with Mediterranean heritage or those seeking a name with subtle exotic appeal.

Marinka is a feminine name that serves as a diminutive form of Marina in several Slavic languages, particularly in Russian, Ukrainian, and Polish cultures. The name ultimately derives from the Latin 'marinus,' meaning 'of the sea.' Marinka carries a sweet, affectionate quality with its diminutive suffix, while maintaining connections to water symbolism. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, it enjoys moderate popularity in Eastern European nations. The name blends a soft, feminine sound with cultural richness, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with international flair yet accessible pronunciation. Marinka projects a gentle, spirited personality with its melodic quality.

A lovely and typical name on the eastern shore of the Gulf of Bothnia that no one in the English-speaking world will know how to pronounce. Maia sounds (virtually) the same and is far more familiar outside Finland and Latvia.

Some sources say Mele is a South Sea Islander form of Mary, but it's also a name in its own right meaning song.

Why does Mairi (rhymes with Harry) seem so much cooler than Mary? This Irish form of Mary was not used before the seventeenth century, as it was considered too sacred. The vocative case of the name, Mhairi (pronounced VAH-ree), is also used as a given name in Scotland.

This Polish name originated as an affectionate diminutive of Maria, but nowadays it is commonly used as a stand-alone. An interesting alternative to the more familiar elaborations on Mary, like Mariella and Marissa.