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International Variations of Mary

  1. Isamar

    • Origin:

      Spanish, Conflation of Isabella and Maria

    • Description:

      This is one elaboration of the ubiquitous Isobel that we think should be chosen more often and would work well in many languages.
  2. Maryse

    • Origin:

      French diminutive of Marie

    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"

    • Description:

      Variant of Marise
  3. Mies

    • Origin:

      Dutch diminutive of Maria

    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"

    • Description:

      A cute but not cutesy Dutch diminutive of Maria.
  4. Marella

    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Marilla, Latin

    • Meaning:

      "bright shining sea"

    • Description:

      Marella is an Italian name that feels at once unique and familiar, which may either be the best or worst of both worlds, depending on your preference.
  5. Moya

    • Description:

      Moya is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins, creating a rich tapestry of meanings. In Irish Gaelic, it derives from Máire (a form of Mary) and can mean "bitter" or "beloved." In African contexts, particularly Swahili and Zulu, Moya means "spirit" or "soul," giving it a profound spiritual dimension. The name also appears in Slavic languages with connections to concepts like "mine" or "my own." This multicultural background makes Moya especially appealing to families seeking names with global resonance. Its simple two-syllable structure and flowing sound give it an accessible yet distinctive quality. While never extremely common, Moya has maintained steady usage across different cultures, appreciated for its brevity and emotional depth.

  6. Marisha

    • Description:

      Marisha is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly popular in Russian and Eastern European cultures. It developed as a diminutive form of Maria (Mary), carrying the same Hebrew roots meaning 'bitter' or 'beloved.' The name has a warm, affectionate quality while maintaining an exotic feel in Western countries. Marisha gained some recognition in the United States during the late 20th century as cultural boundaries expanded and Eastern European names became more familiar. The name strikes a balance between being recognizable and distinctive, with its melodic three-syllable pronunciation. While never reaching mainstream popularity, Marisha appeals to parents seeking a name with international flair that remains accessible to English speakers, combining the familiarity of Maria with a fresh, softer sound.

  7. Manette

    • Origin:

      French, diminutive of Marie

    • Description:

      Manette might be a fresh way to spin Mary or Marie, but popular French Manon has more grace and heft. Manet takes Manette in an artistic direction.
  8. Maisa

    • Origin:

      Finnish and Old Swedish form of Maria, Portuguese, Japanese, Georgian, Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "beloved; drop of the sea, bitter; beloved and famous in battle; dance + sand; born in May; walking with a proud gait"

    • Description:

      A truly international name with a multitude of origins.
  9. Manka

    • Description:

      Manka is a feminine name with diverse cultural roots. In African contexts, particularly in countries like Zimbabwe and Malawi, it can be found as a surname and given name. It also has Slavic connections, possibly serving as a diminutive form of Maria in some Eastern European regions. The name is characterized by its simplicity and pleasant sound, with two straightforward syllables. Manka remains uncommon in Western countries but has moderate usage in its regions of origin. The name carries a gentle strength and multicultural versatility that makes it an intriguing choice for parents seeking something unique yet accessible.
  10. Moire

    • Description:

      Moire is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Irish name Máire (a form of Mary), pronounced 'MOY-ra,' meaning 'bitter' or 'beloved.' Alternatively, it could relate to the French term 'moiré,' referring to a rippled textile pattern. In Scottish Gaelic, 'moire' appears in expressions like 'muire mhàthair' (Mother Mary). The name has a sophisticated, slightly mysterious quality with its unusual spelling but recognizable sound. While uncommon in mainstream usage, Moire appeals to parents drawn to Celtic heritage or those seeking an understated name with cultural depth. Its pronunciation may vary based on the intended cultural reference.
  11. Mirentxu

    • Origin:

      Basque, from the Hebrew or Egyptian Mary

    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea; bitter; beloved; love"

    • Description:

      This alluring Basque name is a diminutive of Miren, a Basque equivalent of Mary. It was most famously used in the mononymous opera Mirentxu by Jesús Guridi. A beautiful name with a distinct ending sound, it's a unique way to honour a Mary, although the "X" sound may lead to some pronunciation issues.
  12. Marja

    • Origin:

      Finnish, Dutch

    • Meaning:

      "berry"

    • Description:

      A Dutch, Finnish and Sorbian form of Mary, which also happens to mean "berry" in Finnish, giving it a sweet naturey charm.
  13. Mariya

    • Origin:

      Hebrew or Egyptian

    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"

    • Description:

      Russian, Ukrainian, and Bulgarian form of the classic Maria sure to cause a lifetime of spelling questions and pronunciation mistakes.
  14. Marisela

    • Origin:

      Spanish and Italian form of Maria

    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved + famous battle"

    • Description:

      An elaboration of Marisa, a combination of Maria and Louisa. The meaning of Maria is uncertain, but 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).
  15. Marije

    • Origin:

      Dutch, Frisian

    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"

    • Description:

      This variant of Mary used in the Netherlands has a long I sound like Mariah, and feels like an interesting twist on the classic name.
  16. Marjan

    • Description:

      Marjan is a feminine name with Slavic, Persian, and Dutch origins, though it can sometimes be used for males in certain cultures. In Slavic languages, particularly Slovenian and Croatian, it derives from the Latin Marianus, relating to the Roman family name Marius or possibly connected to the name Mary (Maria). In Persian culture, Marjan means 'coral' or 'pearl', symbolizing something precious and beautiful. In Dutch usage, it often combines 'Maria' and 'Jan'. The name is moderately common in Eastern Europe, the Netherlands, and Iran, though relatively uncommon elsewhere. Marjan typically evokes images of beauty, strength, and cultural richness across its various origins.

  17. Majken

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian version of Marie or Mary, Hebrew or Egyptian

    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea; bitter; beloved; love"

    • Description:

      Majken, which is related to Maiken and Maike, is a popular name in Sweden whose variations are used throughout Scandinavia as cooler forms of Mary. Majken is virtually unknown in the U.S. and probably not bound for emigration.
  18. Marija

    • Origin:

      Croatian, Slovene, Serbian, Macedonian, Lithuanian, Latvian variation of Maria

    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"

    • Description:

      Common transcription of Maria throughout Europe.
  19. Roula

    • Description:

      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.
  20. Maike

    • Description:

      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.