The name Margaret is a classic choice, steeped in history and imbued with meanings that resonate across generations. If you’re considering Margaret for your little one, or are simply curious about this enduring name, read on to discover its origins, popularity, and some delightful alternatives.
Margaret Name Meaning
The most well-known meaning of Margaret is "pearl." This association evokes images of beauty, rarity, and value. Over time, the name has acquired even more profound interpretations, including "child of light" and "pearl of wisdom," reflecting the qualities often associated with those who bear the name. This connection to intelligence, beauty, and grace explains why so many accomplished women throughout history have been named Margaret.
Origins of the Name Margaret
The name Margaret’s journey begins in ancient Greece. It originates from the Greek word "Margarites," which, unsurprisingly, means "pearl." This elegant name was then adopted by the Romans, spreading its popularity across Europe throughout the Middle Ages. The name’s simple, yet beautiful meaning ensured it remained a popular choice throughout the centuries.
Margaret Name Popularity
Margaret is a popular name with a rich history. It has been borne by many notable figures throughout history.
The name enjoyed immense popularity in the early 20th century. Examining data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), Margaret consistently ranked among the top names for girls. It held the 3rd position in 1910, 1911, and consistently ranked among the top 5 until the 1930s.
Here’s a snapshot of Margaret’s popularity during its peak:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 3 | 8,222 | 2.3352% |
| 1915 | 4 | 23,054 | 2.5375% |
| 1920 | 4 | 27,997 | 2.518% |
| 1921 | 4 | 28,466 | 2.486% |
While its prominence gradually declined throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Margaret has experienced a resurgence in recent years, demonstrating its enduring appeal.
Here are some recent statistics from the SSA:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 125 | 2,302 | 0.1676% |
| 2020 | 126 | 2,101 | 0.1651% |
| 2022 | 127 | 2,164 | 0.164% |
| 2023 | 132 | 2,075 | 0.1603% |
This resurgence likely stems from its classic, timeless quality and its connection to strong, accomplished women.
Final Thoughts on the Name Margaret
Margaret is more than just a name; it’s a legacy. It’s classic, elegant, and meaningful, with a rich history and a vibrant present. If you’re searching for a name that embodies strength, beauty, and wisdom, Margaret might just be the perfect choice.
Names Like Margaret
If you admire Margaret but want something slightly different, consider these alternatives:
- Diminutives: Daisy, Maggie, Maisie, Meg, Greta, Peg, Peggy, Rita, Madge.
- Variants: Greta, Gretel, Gretchen, Grethel, Gretl, Gretta, Grette, Madge, Mag, Maggi, Maggie, Maggy, Maiga, Maighread, Mairead, Maisie, Maisy, Malgorzata, Marcheta, Marchieta, Marga, Margalit, Margalo, Margareta, Margarete, Margarethe, Margaretta, Margarette, Margarida, Margarit, Margarita, Margarite, Margaruite, Marge, Marged, Margeen, Margeret, Margeretta, Margerie, Margerita, Margery, Marget, Margette, Margey, Marghanita, Margharita, Margherita, Marghretta, Margie, Margies, Margisia, Margit, Margita, Margize, Margo, Margot, Margred, Margret, Margrete, Margreth, Margrett, Margrid, Margrit, Marguarette, Marguarita, Marguerita, Marguerite, Marguita, Margy, Marit, Marjery, Marjey, Marji, Marjie, Marjorey, Marjorie, Marjory, Marketa, Marketta, Markie, Markita, Marquetta, Meg, Megan, Meggi, Meggie, Meggy, Meghan, Meta, Mette, Meyta, Peg, Pegeen, Peggie, Peggy, Rita.
- Similar Names: Pearl, Magali, Mamie, Reta, Daisy.
- Names that Sound Like Margaret: Margeree, Margerey
Sibling Names
If Margaret has a sibling, here are some other names that pair well:
- Owen
- Josie