Molly is a charming and popular girl's name with a rich history and interesting origins. It is of Irish and Scottish origin and is derived from the ancient Gaelic name "Móir", which means "sea" or "great". The name Molly was originally used as a pet form of Mary, but over time it has become a distinct name in its own right.
The name Molly has been used for centuries and has been associated with various historical figures. One notable example is Molly Pitcher, also known as Mary Ludwig Hays, who was an American heroine during the Revolutionary War. She became famous for her bravery on the battlefield, carrying water to soldiers and even taking over cannon fire when a gunner was wounded.
In literature, the name Molly has been used by several prominent authors. Most famously, James Joyce used the name in his modernist novel "Ulysses", where Molly Bloom is the wife of the main character Leopold Bloom. The name has also been used in various other works of literature and popular culture, such as in the animated film "The Secret of NIMH" where Mrs. Brisby is named Molly.
Today, the name Molly continues to be popular among parents looking for a charming and distinctive name for their daughters. It remains strongly associated with its Irish and Scottish roots, while also being beloved by people around the world who appreciate its warmth and charm. Whether you're naming your daughter after historical figures like Molly Pitcher or literary characters like Molly Bloom, choosing the name Molly is sure to bring a touch of magic into her life.
The name Molly experienced a significant increase in popularity over the years, with a notable rise beginning around the late 1950s. Between 1958 and 1964, there was a substantial jump from 745 births to 1002 births, marking a significant turning point for this name. The peak occurred in 1965 with 1062 births. After the mid-1970s, Molly's popularity declined but remained relatively stable until the early 1980s when it began to rise again, reaching another peak in 1988 with 3461 births. However, since the late 1990s, there has been a steady decline in the number of newborn girls named Molly, with only 1430 births recorded in 2023. Overall, Molly has seen periods of considerable popularity followed by decreases over time.