Mariology Names

A religious name, referring to the announcement by the Virgin Mary that she was with child.

A spiritual name of Italian origin, Annunziata refers to the angel Gabriel visiting the Virgin Mary to tell her of the upcoming birth of Jesus. Annunciata is an alternative spelling, while diminutive Nunzia is more commonly used.

A highly unusual name in the U.S., Assumpta refers to the Assumption of Mary, the ascent of the Virgin Mary into Heaven before her death in Catholic and Eastern Orthodox doctrine. An intriguing and pious choice for a devout Catholic family — though watch out for those first three letters.

Assunta is a feminine Italian name derived from the Latin word 'assumpta,' meaning 'taken up' or 'elevated.' The name has strong Catholic associations, specifically referring to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into Heaven—a significant feast day celebrated on August 15th. Girls born around this feast day were traditionally given this name in Catholic Italian families. Assunta has been used for centuries in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities, though it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. The name carries a sense of devotion and religious heritage, connecting bearers to Italian cultural traditions. While less frequently given to newborns today even in Italy, Assunta maintains its cultural significance and timeless connection to religious heritage.

Although feminizations ending in "ette" are not particularly popular now, Bernadette is a pleasant, feminine, but strong name that doesn't feel prohibitively dated. And though strongly associated with the saint who saw visions of the Virgin Mary—Saint Bernadette of Lourdes—it is now no longer strictly inhabiting the Catholic diocese.

Caeli is a delicate feminine name with Latin origins, derived from 'caelum' meaning 'heaven' or 'sky.' This ethereal name carries celestial connotations and evokes images of the heavens above. In Roman mythology, Caelus was the god of the sky, giving the name additional historical depth. Caeli remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries, making it an uncommon choice for parents seeking something distinctive yet melodic. The name's brevity and flowing sound contribute to its appeal, along with its meaningful connection to the natural world. Some may also appreciate Caeli as a variation of Caelie or Kaylee, though with a more direct link to its Latin celestial roots.

A name that relates to Concepcion and the Virgin Mary, but feels a good deal more secular.

Though it's related to the Virgin Mary, this name was once perceived as the height of sensuality, a role since taken over by nicknames Lola and Lolita.

Captivating and gorgeous, powerful but with gentle sounds, Fatima is a popular name of Arabic origin. In the Quran, she is one of the Prophet Muhammad's daughters, and the wife of Ali, the forth ruler of the Muslim world. Fatima is regarded as the ideal example of a Muslim women, which makes it a favorite among Muslim parents.

Popular Spanish name that relates to the patron saint of Mexico. It could conceivably, like Soledad and Consuelo, cross the border into multicultural territory, but the name's decline since the nineties would seem to make that less likely.

Immaculata is a feminine name with Latin origins, directly referring to the Catholic concept of the Immaculate Conception - the doctrine that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin. The name literally means 'immaculate' or 'spotless' and carries profound religious significance. Most common in devoutly Catholic communities, particularly those with Italian, Spanish, or Latin American heritage, Immaculata represents purity and spiritual devotion. While never widely used in English-speaking countries, it maintains consistent usage in religious families. The name offers nickname possibilities like Imma or Maculata. With its distinctive rhythm and clear religious connection, Immaculata makes a bold statement about cultural and spiritual values.

Jacinta, the Spanish word for hyacinth, is a lot softer and sweeter than the English version. The correct Spanish pronunciation is ha-SEEN-ta, though many English speakers would say ja-SIN-ta. Although the name is slightly different, Jacinta is largely associated at present with Australian-born actress Jacinda Barrett.

This name of the French town where a young peasant girl had a vision of the Virgin Mary in 1858 vaulted into the spotlight when Madonna chose it for her daughter, but few other families except for devout Roman Catholics have followed her lead (any more than they've used Rocco for their sons).

Lucia is a lush, rich Latinate equivalent of Lucy, popular in Spain and throughout Latin America and also a cross-cultural favorite. You might be surprised to know that Lucia has ALWAYS ranked among the Top 1000 girl names in the US, though she's really taken off only since the turn of this century.