Looking for the perfect girl name starting with M? Here's a quick rundown of the top 15 popular M names, blending history, meaning, and modern trends. These names range from timeless classics like Maria to trendy favorites like Mia, Mila, and Maeve. Each name carries a unique background, cultural significance, and popularity ranking in the U.S. as of 2024.
Highlights:
- Mia: Ranked #5, a short, sweet choice with global appeal.
- Mila: At #33, a chic, international favorite.
- Madison: Once #2 in 2001, now at #46, inspired by pop culture.
- Maeve: A rising star at #75, rooted in Irish mythology.
- Magnolia: A nature-inspired pick climbing quickly at #138.
Key Trends:
- Short, vowel-rich names like Mia and Mila dominate.
- Vintage revivals like Mabel and Magnolia are gaining traction.
- Surname-inspired options like Madison and Mackenzie remain popular.
These names reflect a mix of tradition and modernity, offering something for every style. Tools like NameHatch can simplify the process of narrowing down your options with personalized suggestions, collaboration features, and filters for origin or style. Ready to find the perfect M name? Dive into the list for inspiration!
Top 15 Girl Names Starting with M: Rankings, Origins, and Popularity Trends 2024
1. Mia
In 2024, Mia held the #5 spot nationally, with 12,131 baby girls given the name - making up about 0.685% of all female births. Impressively, it has stayed in the top 10 since 2009.
Originally a shortened form of Maria (from the Hebrew Miryam), Mia is also used as a nickname for names like Amelia. Its meanings vary across languages: "mine" in Italian and Spanish, "beloved" in Ancient Egyptian, and "dear" in Slavic traditions. Most people pronounce it as "MEE-uh" (/ˈmiːə/), though "MY-uh" is occasionally heard.
The name’s popularity took off in 1964, thanks to Mia Farrow's appearance on Peyton Place. Births jumped from just 104 in 1963 to 1,054 by 1965. Later, cultural moments like ABBA's hit song Mamma Mia (1975) and The Princess Diaries (2001) gave it another boost. By 2024, Mia was a leading choice in several major regions.
Some well-known Mias include Olympic soccer legend Mia Hamm, actress Mia Goth, and politician Mia Love. Fictional characters like Mia Thermopolis (The Princess Diaries), Mia Wallace (Pulp Fiction), and Mia Toretto (The Fast and the Furious) have further solidified its charm.
Next, let’s dive into the story of Madison.
2. Madison
Madison landed at #46 in 2024, with 4,563 baby girls given the name - a sharp drop from its #2 peak in 2001, when it was chosen for 22,126 girls.
The name has English origins, originally meaning "son of Matthew" or "son of Maud." Its meteoric rise can be traced back to the 1984 movie Splash. In the film, Daryl Hannah's mermaid character adopts the name Madison after seeing a Madison Avenue street sign in New York City. This quirky moment sparked a staggering 550,000% increase in the name's popularity over the next 18 years.
Typically pronounced "MAD-i-son" (/ˈmædɪsən/), the name is now almost exclusively feminine. In 2024, only 36 boys were named Madison compared to 4,563 girls. Popular nicknames include Maddie, Maddy, Madi, and Mads, while alternate spellings like Maddison, Madisyn, and Madyson are also common.
Famous people with the name include tennis player Madison Keys, singer Madison Beer, and actress Madison Bailey from Outer Banks. Madison also pops up in pop culture, with characters like Madison Montgomery in American Horror Story: Coven and Madison Clark in Fear the Walking Dead. Historically, the name nods to James Madison, the 4th U.S. President and a key figure in drafting the Constitution.
Next, we’ll explore Mila - a name with global charm and a captivating history.
3. Mila
In 2024, Mila held the #33 spot, a remarkable climb since its debut at #830 in 1881. The name vanished for 125 years, reappeared in 2006 at #746, and reached its peak at #14 in 2018.
Mila has Slavic roots and was traditionally a nickname for names like Ludmila, Milena, and Milica. It stems from "Mil", meaning gracious, dear, or pleasant. In Spanish and Italian, Mila is a shortened form of "Milagros", which translates to miracles. It’s also linked to Emilia, which has Latin origins from "aemulus", meaning rival.
The name is pronounced either "MEE-lah" or "MEE-luh." Its modern popularity owes much to actress Mila Kunis, known for her roles in That '70s Show and Black Swan. Once a nickname, Mila has transformed into a chic, standalone name.
Famous Milas include actress Milla Jovovich, singer Mila J, and Mila Hager, the daughter of Jenna Bush Hager and granddaughter of former President George W. Bush. In fiction, Mila appears as a figure skater in the anime Yuri on Ice and as a character in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.
Mila’s charm isn’t limited to the U.S. - it’s a favorite worldwide. The name ranks #5 in the Netherlands, #7 in Switzerland and Belgium, #9 in Germany, and #10 in New Zealand, highlighting its international appeal.
Next, we’ll dive into Maya - a name with rich multicultural significance and timeless elegance.
4. Maya
Maya was the 51st most popular name in the United States in 2024, with its peak popularity occurring in 2006 when 5,047 babies were given the name.
The name Maya has roots in several languages and traditions. In Sanskrit, it translates to "illusion", "magic", or "dream", and is also an alternate name for Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and beauty. From Greek, through Maia, it means "good mother" or "great", referencing Maia, the eldest of the Pleiades and mother of Hermes. The Romans even named the month of May after her. In Hebrew, Maya stems from "Mayim", meaning "water." In Maori, it represents "courage", and in Tupi, it translates to "mother."
The pronunciation of Maya varies: in English, it’s "MY-uh", while in Spanish and Italian, it’s "MAH-yah." Its global popularity is evident in rankings such as #5 in Israel (2023), #15 in England, and #16 in Canada (2024).
Maya Angelou, the celebrated poet and civil rights advocate, played a significant role in boosting the name's recognition. Other famous figures include Maya Rudolph, known for her work on Saturday Night Live; Maya Lin, the architect behind the Vietnam Veterans Memorial; basketball star Maya Moore; and actress Maya Hawke, daughter of Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke.
The name also appears in various fictional works, such as Maya the Bee, a beloved German children's series; Maya Fey from the Ace Attorney video games; and Maya Lopez (Echo), a superhero in Marvel Comics. With its rich cultural connections and broad appeal, Maya continues to be a cherished choice for parents around the world.
5. Madelyn
Madelyn ranked #65 in 2024 with 3,371 births. It peaked at #58 in 2023 and has stayed in the Top 100 since 2008.
The name has Hebrew, Greek, and French origins, meaning "woman from Magdala" or "high tower". It’s a modern English variation of the French name Madeleine, which is tied to the biblical Mary Magdalene from ancient Magdala (now Migdal, Israel). Typically pronounced as MAD-uh-lin (/ˈmæd.lɪn/), it has a timeless yet contemporary charm.
In 2009, Madelyn became the most popular spelling in the U.S., overtaking the more traditional Madeline. Many parents prefer the "-lyn" ending for its straightforward pronunciation and modern vibe. "Maddie" remains a favorite nickname.
Famous figures with this name include actress Madelyn Cline (Outer Banks, Glass Onion), writer and producer Madelyn Pugh (I Love Lucy), and Madelyn Dunham, the maternal grandmother of former President Barack Obama. Fictional Madelyn "Maddie" Hayes, played by Cybill Shepherd in Moonlighting, also adds to the name’s recognition.
Nicknames like Maddie, Maddy, Mads, Addie, and Lynn are common, while alternative spellings include Madelynn, Madalyn, Madilyn, and the original French Madeleine. This modern take on a classic name sets the tone for discovering other trendy M names next.
6. Mackenzie
Mackenzie dropped to #200 in 2024, a significant decline from its peak at #40 in 2001, when it represented 0.350% of births.
Originally a masculine Scottish surname derived from Gaelic Mac Coinnich (meaning "son of Coinneach"), the name Mackenzie has its roots in the Old Irish word caín, which translates to "handsome, fair, or comely." In the United States, it transitioned into a predominantly feminine name after Mackenzie Phillips brought it into the spotlight in 1975 with her role on One Day at a Time. Today, Mackenzie is widely recognized as a girl's name in the U.S., though it remains more commonly used for boys in the United Kingdom and Scotland. It’s pronounced muh-KEN-zee (/məˈkɛnzi/).
Famous individuals bearing the name include actresses Mackenzie Foy and Mackenzie Davis, dancer Mackenzie Ziegler, UFC fighter Mackenzie Dern, and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. Fictional characters with the name include Mackenzie the Border Collie from Bluey, Mackenzie Hollister from Dork Diaries, and Mackenzie Allen from Commander in Chief. Popular nicknames for Mackenzie include Kenzie and Mac, while alternative spellings like Mckenzie, Makenzie, and MacKenzie are also common. Let’s continue delving into other popular M names...
7. Madeline
Madeline stands out with its timeless charm and deep biblical roots. In 2024, it ranked #87 in the U.S., accounting for about 0.164% of female births. Its popularity peaked at #50 in 1998 and has consistently stayed within the Top 100 since 2000. Each year, over 2,500 babies are named "Madeline", and when you include variations like Madelyn and Madeleine, the name performs as if it were a Top 10 contender.
The name traces back to the Aramaic "Magdala" (מגדלא), referring to a town near the Sea of Galilee. Its meanings include "tower", "elevated", or "great", though it's most often associated with "woman of Magdala". Over centuries, it evolved through Greek, Latin, and French forms, eventually becoming the English "Madeline". Its enduring appeal is closely tied to Mary Magdalene, a significant figure in the New Testament.
Madeline is pronounced in three main ways in English: MAD-uh-line (/ˈmædəlɪn/), MAD-lin (/ˈmædlɪn/), and MAD-uh-lin (/ˈmædəlaɪn/). Popular nicknames include Maddy, Maddie, Madi, Lena, and Leni.
Well-known figures with this name include Madeline Kahn, the Academy Award-nominated actress and comedian, Madeleine Albright, the first female U.S. Secretary of State, and Princess Madeleine, Duchess of Hälsingland and Gästrikland. The name also shines in fiction, with characters like the fearless schoolgirl from Ludwig Bemelmans' beloved Madeline series, Madeline Usher from Edgar Allan Poe's "The Fall of the House of Usher", Madeline Martha Mackenzie from Big Little Lies (played by Reese Witherspoon), and the titular character from the 2018 indie video game Celeste. Up next, we explore another standout M name.
8. Melody
Melody carries a musical essence that's hard to overlook. The name comes from the Greek word melōidía (μελῳδία), a blend of melos ("song") and aeidō ("to sing"), which translates to "song" or "singing." Originally just a vocabulary word, it transitioned into use as a feminine given name in the late 19th century [77,78,81].
The name is pronounced either MEHL-uh-dee or MEH-low-dee. With its roots in music and a modern revival, Melody strikes a balance between tradition and contemporary appeal. It first gained significant traction in 1960, peaking at #153 when 0.133% of baby girls were given the name. Although it faded in popularity for several decades, Melody has made a strong comeback. By 2000, it ranked at #398, and it continued to rise, cracking the U.S. Top 100 in 2024 and peaking at #91.
Several well-known individuals bear this name, including Melody Thornton, Melody Gardot, and Melody Thomas Scott. Actress Melody Anderson is also remembered for her role as Dale Arden in the 1980 cult classic Flash Gordon.
Melody has also found a place in fiction, resonating with audiences across generations. Princess Melody, Ariel's daughter in Disney's The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea (2000), introduced the name to younger viewers. Fans of Doctor Who will recognize Melody Pond, better known as River Song, while Melody Valentine is the drummer in Josie and the Pussycats. More recently, Melody Brooks took center stage as the protagonist in the 2024 film Out of My Mind.
Linda Rosenkrantz, co-founder of Nameberry, remarked, "A melodious choice big in the 60s, Melody is now starting to pick up tempo again".
With Melody's rich history and growing popularity, it’s easy to see why it continues to resonate. Up next, we’ll dive into another cherished M name.
9. Molly
Molly traces its roots back to the Middle Ages, originally emerging as a nickname for Mary. It evolved from "Mally", where the "l" replaced the "r", and later became a nickname for Margaret and Martha in the 1700s. Over time, Molly grew into a standalone name. With English and Irish origins, its meaning shifts depending on its roots. From its Hebrew ties to Miriam and Mary, it can mean "bitter" or even hint at "rebellion." Meanwhile, its Latin connections lend it the poetic interpretation of "star of the sea". In American English, it's pronounced /ˈmɑl.i/.
In 2024, Molly ranked #208, with 1,465 babies given the name. Though it peaked at #74 in 1991, it has consistently stayed within the top 1,000 girl names since 1880. For over 125 years, it has been almost exclusively used for females, demonstrating its lasting charm in American naming traditions.
Historical figures like Molly Pitcher, a Revolutionary War heroine, and Margaret "The Unsinkable Molly" Brown, a Titanic survivor, highlight the name's enduring legacy. In modern times, actresses such as Molly Ringwald, Molly Shannon, and Molly Sims keep the name in the spotlight. Fictional characters like Molly Weasley from Harry Potter - a symbol of warmth and family - Molly McIntire from American Girl, Molly Jensen from Ghost, and Molly Bloom from James Joyce's Ulysses further reinforce its cultural presence.
Cleveland Kent Evans of the Omaha World Herald observed, "Molly peaked with millennials".
Currently, about 159,391 people named Molly live in the United States, with an average age of 30.40 years. Next up, we’ll explore a name with a distinct Celtic flair.
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10. Maeve
Maeve has deep roots in Celtic tradition, originating from the Old Irish name Medb. It carries meanings like "she who intoxicates", "mead-woman", or "she who rules", reflecting its ties to mythology and the legendary Queen Maeve, a warrior queen of Connacht in Irish lore. Pronounced as "mayv" (rhyming with "cave"), its sleek, single-syllable sound adds to its modern allure.
In the U.S., Maeve was relatively obscure until 1997, when it first appeared at #953 on the charts. By 2024, it had climbed dramatically, jumping from #485 in 2013 to #75, with 3,098 girls given the name that year. Today, approximately 26,241 people in the U.S. bear the name Maeve, with an average age of just 8.83 years [100, 107].
Pop culture has played a major role in Maeve's rise. Characters like Maeve Millay from HBO's Westworld and Maeve Wiley from Netflix's Sex Education portray strong, multidimensional women. Meanwhile, Queen Maeve from The Boys and the Fae Queen in Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass series add a touch of fantasy allure. Beyond fiction, real-life figures such as Irish novelist Maeve Binchy, British paleontologist Meave Leakey, and attorney Maeve Kennedy McKean - granddaughter of Robert F. Kennedy - have further cemented the name's appeal.
Maeve's charm isn’t limited to the U.S.; it’s also popular internationally. In 2021, it ranked #44 in the Netherlands and #72 in Scotland. With its blend of mythological power, cultural resonance, and modern elegance, Maeve offers parents a timeless yet contemporary choice. Up next, we’ll explore a name inspired by nature.
11. Magnolia
Magnolia blends a touch of Southern charm with a botanical flair. With roots in Latin and French, the name honors the flowering tree named after botanist Pierre Magnol. Pronounced mag-NOH-lee-uh, it translates to "a flower" or "flowering tree." In the language of flowers, magnolias symbolize magnificence. In the Southern United States, where it’s the state flower of both Mississippi and Louisiana, the magnolia represents nobility and dignity.
This name has seen a fascinating resurgence in popularity. Magnolia peaked at #420 in 1909 but fell out of the top 1,000 by 1940, staying off the charts for over 70 years. It reentered in 2013 at #971 and has since climbed rapidly, reaching #138 in 2024 with 2,146 baby girls given the name that year. This revival reflects a broader trend toward nature-inspired names, with Magnolia leaping from #506 in 2016 to its current rank in less than a decade.
Famous Magnolias include Australian actress and model Magnolia Maymuru (born 1997), rapper Magnolia Shorty (1982–2010), and 19th-century philanthropist Magnolia Lewis Sexton (1835–1903), a champion for women’s rights and education in Mississippi. The name also appears in fiction, such as Magnolia Hawks in the musical Show Boat and Magnolia Breeland in the TV series Hart of Dixie. Even No Doubt drummer Adrian Young chose Magnolia for his daughter in 2011.
With charming nicknames like Maggie, Nola, and Nolie, Magnolia offers a mix of vintage elegance and modern appeal. Its blend of literary connections, Southern grace, and botanical beauty makes it a distinctive yet approachable choice for parents. Next, dive into a name that radiates French sophistication.
12. Margot
Margot carries an air of French elegance. Originally a diminutive of Marguerite (the French version of Margaret), the name translates to "pearl" in Greek (margaritēs) and is also associated with the ox-eye daisy. In English, it's pronounced "MAR-goh", with the "t" remaining silent, while the French pronunciation is [maʁ.ɡo]. What began as a nickname has gracefully grown into a name in its own right.
In the United States, Margot has seen a meteoric rise in popularity, climbing from #943 in 2013 to #148 in 2023, and further to #126 in 2024. Much of this can be attributed to Margot Robbie, whose star power - particularly after her leading role in the 2023 Barbie film - has brought the name into the spotlight. Across the Atlantic, Margot also found favor, ranking among the top 50 names for girls born in England and Wales in 2023.
The name has been carried by many notable figures, including actress Margot Robbie, celebrated British ballerina Margot Fonteyn, and Margot Kidder, the Canadian-American actress best remembered for playing Lois Lane in the original Superman films. Margot Frank, the sister of Anne Frank, is another poignant historical namesake.
Margot has also left its mark in pop culture. Gwyneth Paltrow's portrayal of Margot Tenenbaum in Wes Anderson's The Royal Tenenbaums (2001) and Grace Kelly's role as Margot Mary Wendice in Alfred Hitchcock's Dial M for Murder (1954) are just a couple of examples. More recently, the name has resonated with younger audiences through characters like Margot Roth Spiegelman in John Green's Paper Towns and Margot Roth Covey in Jenny Han's To All the Boys I've Loved Before series.
Symbolizing purity and transformation, much like its "pearl" meaning, Margot embodies timeless charm. With alternative spellings like Margo and Margaux, the name balances classic sophistication with a fresh, modern vibe. Let’s move on to a name that brings a touch of vintage sweetness to the mix.
13. Mabel
Mabel carries a timeless charm, meaning "lovable, dear, or attractive." Its roots trace back to the Latin amabilis, and it first emerged as a medieval abbreviation of Amabel or Amabillia around 1200. The Normans introduced it to the British Isles as Amable. Although popular during the Middle Ages, the name nearly vanished after the 15th century. Its revival in the 19th century is often credited to C. M. Yonge's 1854 novel The Heir of Redclyffe, which featured characters named Mabel and Amabel. Pronounced "MAY-buhl", the name offers a blend of simplicity and elegance.
In the U.S., Mabel was a favorite in the late 19th century, ranking among the top 20 names during the 1880s and 1890s. Its highest point came in 1891, when it reached #15. However, it fell out of favor and disappeared from the top 1,000 between 1965 and 2012. Making a comeback in 2013 at #711, Mabel has been steadily climbing the ranks, landing at #222 in 2024 with 1,380 babies given the name [135,136].
Several notable figures have carried the name. Silent film star Mabel Normand (1892–1930) was a trailblazing actress, director, and screenwriter, often collaborating with Charlie Chaplin. Mabel Fairbanks (1915–2001) broke barriers as the first African American inducted into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame. Adding a modern touch, English singer Mabel McVey has brought the name into the spotlight, while Princess Mabel of Orange-Nassau (born 1968) lends it a royal connection.
Mabel has also left its mark in entertainment. Selena Gomez’s character Mabel Mora in Only Murders in the Building and Mabel Pines from Disney's Gravity Falls have introduced the name to younger audiences. Theater enthusiasts may recognize Mabel Stanley from Gilbert & Sullivan's The Pirates of Penzance. Additionally, in the sitcom Mad About You, Mabel serves as an acronym for "Mothers Always Bring Extra Love", adding a heartfelt touch.
The name strikes a balance between vintage elegance and modern charm. Popular nicknames include Mae, Belle, and Mabs, while variations like Mabelle and Maybelle provide unique alternatives. Next, we'll continue diving into more names starting with M.
14. Malia
Malia brings a touch of island charm as the Hawaiian version of Maria or Mary. Pronounced mah-LEE-ah, it carries meanings of "calm", "peaceful", or "serene" from its Hawaiian roots, while its Hebrew and Germanic connections add layers of "beloved" and "courage." This rich background has helped the name gain traction over the years.
The name saw a significant rise in 2009, reaching #192 on the U.S. baby name charts, thanks to the spotlight on Barack Obama's eldest daughter, Malia Ann Obama. Its blend of meanings and cultural significance continues to resonate with parents. By 2024, Malia ranked #325, with about 1,100 baby girls receiving the name annually. It remains especially cherished in Hawaii, where it often ranks among the most popular names.
Famous figures named Malia include Canadian actress Malia Baker (from Netflix's The Baby-Sitters Club), French Olympic swimmer Malia Metella, and American model and surfer Malia Jones. Fans of the TV series Teen Wolf may also recognize Malia Tate, a main character played by Shelley Hennig, which has kept the name relevant in youth pop culture.
With its mix of traditional roots and modern flair, Malia continues to appeal to parents worldwide. Variations like Maleah, Maliyah, and Mahlia offer alternative spellings for those seeking a slight twist. Beyond the U.S., Malia has also gained attention in countries like the UK, France, Switzerland, and Germany.
Let’s move on to our final M name!
15. Maria
Maria is a name with deep historical roots and a rich legacy. It originates from the Latin form of the Greek name Maria (or Mariam), which stems from the Hebrew name Miriam. The meaning of Maria is layered and multifaceted, including interpretations such as "beloved", "bitter", "rebelliousness", "wished-for child", or "drop of the sea". In English, it’s pronounced ma-REE-ah. The name carries profound religious significance as the Latinized version of Mary, the mother of Jesus, making it especially prominent in Catholic traditions.
Maria reached its peak popularity in the U.S. in 1975, ranking at #30. Although it fell out of the top 100 by 2012, it made an impressive return by 2024, climbing to #74, with about 0.176% of baby girls receiving the name. As of 2023, an estimated 2.16 million people in the United States are named Mary or one of its variations.
Beyond the U.S., Maria is a beloved name worldwide. It consistently ranks in the top 10 in countries like Argentina, Brazil, Italy, Mexico, Poland, Portugal, and Spain. Many notable individuals have carried the name, from Italian educator Maria Montessori, known for the Montessori method, to Russian tennis champion Maria Sharapova, opera icon Maria Callas, and journalist Maria Shriver. The name also shines in pop culture, with memorable characters like Maria von Trapp in The Sound of Music and the lead in West Side Story.
Maria's global appeal is further enhanced by its many variations, including Marie (French/German), Mary (English), Mariya (Russian/Bulgarian), and Mariah (English). It’s also commonly used in compound names such as Anna Maria or Maria Elena. With its timeless charm and adaptability, Maria continues to be a name that resonates across generations and cultures. Want to discover even more meaningful names? NameHatch's tools can help you dive deeper into the possibilities.
How NameHatch Helps You Choose M Names

NameHatch makes finding the perfect M name easier than ever, building on the long-standing popularity and charm of these names. M names hold a special appeal because they strike a balance between soft and strong, making them a great fit for families from all walks of life. From timeless choices like Mary to modern picks like Mia and Mila, these names resonate across generations and cultures. As Nameberry Editor Sophie Kihm explains, “Mia’s success is largely based upon its streamlined image and multicultural appeal”, a quality shared by many names starting with M.
Using AI-powered recommendations, NameHatch tailors suggestions to your preferences by learning from your interactions with thousands of names. With over 20 years of naming data, the platform combines historical trends with modern insights to offer suggestions that align with both your style and enduring popularity. Whether you’re drawn to vintage classics or contemporary favorites, NameHatch bridges the gap between personal taste and proven trends.
The platform also offers collaborative tools like partner sync, allowing you and your loved ones to save and share names effortlessly. This feature eliminates the need for endless back-and-forth discussions, helping you focus on names that truly resonate with everyone involved.
For a more targeted search, NameHatch provides personalized filters. Want to honor Irish heritage? Filter for names like Maeve. Prefer something with Russian origins? Mila could be a great option. You can also explore names by style, whether you're drawn to vintage gems like Mabel or nature-inspired picks like Magnolia.
Here’s a snapshot of some popular M names, their origins, meanings, and current trends:
| Name | Origin | Meaning | 2024 Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mia | Italian/Scandinavian | "Mine" or "bitter" | Top 10 since 2009 |
| Madison | English | "Son of Maud" | Peaked at No. 2 in 2001 |
| Mila | Slavic/Russian | "Gracious" or "dear" | International favorite |
| Maya | Sanskrit/Hebrew | "Illusion" or "water" | Top 100 since 2002 |
| Madelyn | English/French | "Woman from Magdala" | Most popular spelling |
| Mackenzie | Scottish | "Son of Kenneth" | Top 100 since the 1990s |
| Madeline | English/French | "High tower" | Classic variation |
| Melody | Greek | "Song" | Peaked at No. 91 in 2024 |
| Molly | Hebrew | "Bitter" | Most popular in the 1990s |
| Maeve | Irish | "She who intoxicates" | Broke into Top 100 in 2023 |
| Magnolia | French | Flower name | Trending botanical choice |
| Margot | French | "Pearl" | Rising French diminutive |
| Mabel | Latin | "Lovable" | Vintage comeback |
| Malia | Hawaiian | Form of Mary | International variation |
| Maria | Latin | "Beloved" or "drop of the sea" | No. 74 in 2024 |
NameHatch’s tools make it simple to refine your search and zero in on the perfect name as you narrow down your choices. Whether you’re looking for something timeless or trendy, the platform has you covered.
Conclusion
Girl names that start with M carry a timeless charm while staying relevant in modern times. They rank as the second most popular group of girl names by initial, only outpaced by names beginning with A. From current favorites like Mia, Mila, and Madison, M names have shown their ability to remain beloved across generations.
What sets M names apart is their adaptability. Whether you're drawn to old-fashioned gems like Mabel, nature-inspired options like Magnolia, or chic international picks like Margot and Maeve, there's an M name to match every taste. Their soft, flowing sounds make them easy to appreciate in various languages, giving them a broad appeal that resonates with families today.
These names often carry meaningful origins - ranging from "beloved" to "gracious" - that reflect diverse hopes and values. With over 4,276 M names to explore, it’s easy to find one that aligns with your family's story.
Choosing from such a wide range can feel overwhelming, but tools like NameHatch make the process easier. Using AI-powered filters, you can narrow down options by origin, meaning, or style. The platform also includes a swipe feature, helping families focus on names that truly resonate without endless back-and-forth debates.
From enduring classics like Maria to trendy picks like Mila, M names effortlessly connect tradition with modern preferences. Start your journey today and find a name that stands the test of time.
FAQs
Which M girl names are rising fastest right now?
Mia, Madison, and Mila are quickly climbing the ranks of popular girl names that start with "M." Among them, Mia stands out as a clear favorite, maintaining its upward trend in popularity. These names are catching on thanks to their classic feel paired with a fresh, contemporary vibe.
How do I choose between similar names like Madelyn, Madeline, and Madeleine?
To decide between Madelyn, Madeline, and Madeleine, think about their backgrounds, pronunciation, and overall vibe. Madeleine has French roots and carries a timeless, sophisticated charm. Madeline is the classic English form, known for its simplicity and ties to biblical traditions. Meanwhile, Madelyn offers a modern, relaxed feel and is especially trendy in the U.S. Consider which style fits your taste, how you'd like it to sound, and how common it is where you live.
What are good M name middle names that pair well with these picks?
When choosing middle names for girl names beginning with "M", it's all about finding a pairing that feels harmonious and meaningful. Timeless choices like Elizabeth, Grace, Rose, or Marie work wonderfully with classic first names such as Margaret or Madeline. If you're leaning toward something more current, names like Mae, Luna, or Jade add a modern flair and pair perfectly with playful options like Millie. Whether you go traditional or trendy, aim for a middle name that complements the first name in flow, style, and personal significance.