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Margaret

♀ Girl

Pronounced MAR-guh-ret /ˈmɑːr.ɡə.rɪt/High

Meaning: Pearl — from Greek <em>margaritēs</em>, meaning a pearlHigh

In 30 seconds: One of English history's great names, Margaret means 'pearl' from the Greek. Queens, saints, and prime ministers have worn it with distinction. A classic experiencing a warm comeback, it overflows with nickname potential.
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Origin HighGreek, Latin
MeaningPearl — from Greek <em>margaritēs</em>, meaning a pearl
Peak year1921
Total births (all-time)≈ 1,246,649

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 192118802017

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Margaret derives from the Late Latin Margarita, itself from the Greek margaritēs (pearl), possibly ultimately from Persian or Sanskrit. The pearl was a symbol of purity and great worth in the ancient world. The name was carried to Scotland and England by Saint Margaret of Scotland (c. 1045–1093), wife of King Malcolm III, who was canonized in 1250.

Margaret was one of the most popular names in medieval England and remained so for centuries. It was borne by queens of England, Scotland, and Denmark. Famous modern bearers include Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and Princess Margaret of the UK. After declining in the mid-20th century, Margaret is now experiencing a revival among parents seeking substantial classic names.

Did you know? Saint Margaret of Antioch (died c. 304) was so popular in medieval England that she is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers, and her feast day was once a major celebration.

Variations

MargueriteMargaretaMargaretheMargarita

Nicknames

MaggieMegPeggyMargeRitaDaisy

Famous Bearers

  • ★Margaret Thatcher (1925–2013)
    First female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, 1979–1990.
  • ★Saint Margaret of Scotland (c. 1045–1093)
    Queen consort of Scotland, canonized 1250, patron saint of Scotland.

If you like Margaret…

Eleanor— stately English classic with the same regal history and nickname wealth

Frequently Asked

What does the name Margaret mean?

Margaret comes from the Greek <em>margaritēs</em> meaning 'pearl,' a symbol of purity and great value.

How do you pronounce Margaret?

Margaret is pronounced MAR-guh-ret /ˈmɑːr.ɡə.rɪt/ — three syllables with stress on the first.

Is Margaret a boy or girl name?

Margaret is exclusively a girl's name, with a long history as one of the most popular women's names in English.

How popular is Margaret?

After decades of decline, Margaret is experiencing a revival and has climbed back into the U.S. top 100 girls' names.