Marguerite is a feminine given name of French origin that comes from the Middle French word "marguerite," which means "daisy." The name was popularized by Marguerite of Provence (1221-1295), who was the wife of King Louis IX of France and mother to King Saint Louis. She was known for her beauty, intelligence, and kindness, and her name has since become associated with these qualities.
In French literature, Marguerite is also the name of several notable characters, including the heroine of "La Princesse de Clèves" by Madame de La Fayette, and the wife of Faust in Goethe's tragedy "Faust." These literary associations have further contributed to the popularity of the name throughout history.
The name Marguerite has been used consistently over centuries, with its peak popularity in France during the 19th century. Today, it is still a popular choice among French-speaking families, although its usage has declined somewhat since the mid-20th century. Nonetheless, Marguerite remains a classic and elegant name that evokes images of grace, beauty, and refinement.
In English-speaking countries, Marguerite is often shortened to Maggie or Margie, while in France it may be followed by the familiar diminutive "ette," resulting in names like Margot or Madge. Overall, Marguerite is a timeless and regal name with a rich history that continues to captivate parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their daughters.
Sources:
* Behind the Name: http://www.behindthename.com/name/Marguerite
* Etymonline: https://www.etymonline.com/search?q=Marguerite
* French girl names: https://www.french-girlnames.com/marguerite.html
"Marguerite's popularity as a baby name peaked around the early 20th century with over 3000 births per year during World War I. Since then, its usage has significantly declined, with less than 100 births per year in recent decades."