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Margaret
Pronounced MAR-guh-ret /ˈmɑːr.ɡə.rɪt/High
Meaning: Pearl — from Greek margaritēs, meaning a pearlHigh
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
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.
Variations
Nicknames
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.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Margaret mean?
Margaret comes from the Greek margaritēs 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.