Mollie is a charming and unique name of Irish origin, derived from the Irish surname "Ó Maolmhoda". The surname is believed to have been anglicized from the Irish Gaelic "Ó Maoil Mhóna", which translates to "descendant of the devotee of Mongan".
The given name Mollie itself does not have a specific meaning or definition, as it evolved from a surname. However, some sources suggest that Mollie could be interpreted as a diminutive form of Mary, which in Latin means "sea of bitterness" or "rebelliousness", and is often associated with the Virgin Mary.
The name Mollie began to appear more frequently as a given name during the 18th century, particularly in Ireland. It was traditionally used for girls, but it has also been used as a boy's name from time to time.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have carried the name Mollie. One of the most famous is American actress and singer Molly Ringwald, who rose to prominence in the 1980s with roles in films such as "The Breakfast Club" and "Sixteen Candles". Another notable figure is Australian swimming champion Mollie O'Callaghan, who won a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
In popular culture, Mollie has been used as a character name in various works. For instance, it appears in Mark Twain's novel "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" and in the musical "Annie". Additionally, there is a breed of dog known as the "Mollie", which is a type of sheepdog found primarily in Australia.
Overall, Mollie is a name with Irish roots that has gained popularity over time. While it may not have a specific meaning, its unique sound and charm make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.
The name Mollie was quite popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with over 300 births each year from 1880 to around 1920. The peak occurred in 1914 with 644 births. After World War I, the popularity of the name started to decline, reaching its lowest point in recent years with only 197 births in 2022. Overall, there were a total of 47,752 babies named Mollie between 1880 and 2023.