Girl · Hebrew · New Testament · Biblically inspired

Molly

MAH-lee · means “Beloved, or bitter (debated)”

Molly began as an English pet form of Mary, whose Hebrew meaning is debated between "beloved" and "bitter." It is not a name in Scripture itself, but it carries the legacy of Mary, the mother of Jesus, forward in a warm, familiar shape.

“The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God."”

The story behind the name

Molly has been used as an independent given name since at least the 1700s, valued for its cheerful, approachable sound, and it has remained popular across the English-speaking world ever since.

Mary was chosen to carry and raise the Son of God, greeted by the angel Gabriel with the words, "You have found favor with God" (Luke 1:30). She accepted a calling that would bring both wonder and deep sorrow, standing even at the foot of the cross years later.

Mary treasured what she witnessed rather than fully understanding it right away, pondering these things in her heart (Luke 2:19). A daughter named Molly carries a name rooted in that same quiet, faithful wonder.

Middle names that sing with Molly

Chosen for rhythm and meanings that speak to each other.

You might also love