Girl Names That Start With M

Expecting a new baby is a thrilling time, especially when it comes to picking out the perfect name.

Choosing a name for a baby girl starting with the letter M can be both fun and meaningful. This is especially true if names starting with this letter are a family tradition or hold personal significance.

From popular and cute names to unique and biblical options, there’s a wide range of M names to consider.

Popular Girl Names That Start With M

Mia

Mia is a beautiful name, meaning “mine” in Italian. It’s a shortened form of Maria and has been popular in the United States since 2009.

Famous Mias include actresses Mia Farrow and Mia Wasikowska. The main character in The Princess Diaries also uses Mia as a nickname for Amelia.

Mila

Mila is of Russian origin, meaning “gracious” or “dear.” It’s often a short form of Slavic names like Ludmila or Milena. Actress Mila Kunis, born Milena, is a well-known namesake.

Madison

Madison originally came from an English surname meaning “son of Maud.” It gained popularity as a girl’s name after the 1984 movie Splash, where a character chose her name from a New York street sign, Madison Avenue.

Maya

Maya is a versatile name, meaning “water” in Hebrew and “illusion” in Sanskrit. It’s also the name of an indigenous group in Central America. Maya Angelou, the poet and civil rights activist, is a famous bearer of this name.

Madelyn

Madelyn is an English variation of the French name Magdelene, meaning “woman from Magdala.” It has become the most popular spelling of the name, often preferred over Madeline.

Madeline

Madeline, the classic form of Madelyn, shares the same origin. It is also the name of the beloved character in Ludwig Bemelmans’ children’s book series, making it a charming choice for any little girl.

Melanie

Melanie has Greek roots, meaning “dark.” It came to England from France during the Middle Ages. The name gained widespread popularity due to the 1930s novel and film Gone with the Wind, which featured a character named Melanie Wilkes.

Melody

Melody is a lovely name of Greek origin, meaning “song.” It’s a fitting choice for families with musical inclinations.

Maria

Maria is a timeless name with Latin origins and multiple meanings, including “beloved” and “drop of the sea.”

It is widely used in European and Spanish-speaking countries. Songs like “Ave Maria” and “Maria” in West Side Story have further popularized this name.

Mackenzie

Mackenzie originated from a Scottish surname. The name, with nicknames like Mac or Kenzie, started to become fashionable for girls after 1975, thanks in part to actress Mackenzie Philips from One Day at a Time.

Unique Girl Names That Start With M

Maayan

This unique name means “spring of water” in Hebrew and is popular as a unisex name in Israel.

It’s a fresh twist on the name Maya and could be a perfect choice for a baby born under a water sign like Cancer, Scorpio, or Pisces.

Mabyn

Mabyn is a rare name of Cornish origin that means “youth.”

It has historical significance as the name of a sixth-century saint, the daughter of Brychan Brycheiniog, a legendary Welsh king.

Maeve

Pronounced MAYV, this name is derived from the Irish name Medb, which means “intoxicating.”

Maeve of Connacht was a warrior queen in Irish mythology, making this a strong and unique alternative to names like May or Mavis.

Maiara

Maiara is a unique name of Tupi origin that means “wise.”

It has a melodic and modern sound and can be a refreshing alternative to similar names like Maia, Mara, or Mia.

Mairead

This Irish name is a variation of Margaret, meaning “pearl.”

Pronounced ma-REYD, it could be an interesting choice for parents with Irish heritage.

Marley

Originally an English surname meaning “pleasant wood,” Marley is a great choice if you’re looking for a gender-neutral name.

Fans of Bob Marley might also appreciate this name for its nod to the famous musician.

Menodora

An Ancient Greek name, Menodora means “gift of the moon.”

For those with more than one daughter, her sisters Metrodora and Nymphodora offer equally unique names.

Merida

This uncommon name might be familiar from the Disney movie Brave, which features a strong-willed Scottish princess named Merida.

Although the exact meaning is unknown, it might come from the Spanish city of Merida, making it a unique option for a brave little girl.

Mirabelle

Mirabelle is a French name meaning “wonderful,” making it a fresh alternative to other belle names.

The Italian version, Mirabella, is equally charming and less common, offering a wonderful choice for any baby girl.

Muirne

Originating from Irish mythology, Muirne was the mother of the mythical warrior Fionn mac Cumhaill, famous for building the Giants Causeway on the coast of Northern Ireland.

This name means “affection” or “festivity,” making it a fitting choice for a beloved baby girl.

Old-Fashioned M Girl Names

Mabel

Mabel is a classic diminutive of Amabel, which found popularity during the Middle Ages.

It experienced a revival in the nineteenth century thanks to C.M. Yonge’s novel The Heir of Redclyffe. The name means “lovable” in Latin, making it a sweet choice for a baby girl.

Megan

A Welsh diminutive of Margaret, Megan means “pearl.”

This name saw a rise in popularity between the 1950s and 1980s. Famous namesakes include actress Megan Fox and Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex. This name could be ready for another comeback.

Mandy

Mandy is a diminutive of Amanda meaning “lovable.”

It gained popularity in the 1970s and even inspired a song by Barry Manilow. Though it’s less common today, its cute meaning and vintage vibe make it a charming choice.

Margaret

Margaret originates from the Greek word for “pearl.”

This name is steeped in history, being used by various queens and princesses. It is also the patron saint of expectant mothers. It’s a timeless and classic name that could honor a family member.

Marian

Marian, a name of French medieval origin, is a variation of Marie meaning “beloved.”

It has a romantic feel, thanks to Maid Marian from the legend of Robin Hood. This name offers a classic and elegant touch.

Marie

Marie is the French variation of Mary or Maria, meaning “beloved.”

It was hugely popular from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s. With namesakes like Marie Antoinette and Marie Curie, this name exudes sophistication and could be ideal for a double or middle name.

Marilyn

A combination of Mary and Lyn, Marilyn means “beloved” and “lake.”

The name recalls iconic personalities like Marilyn Monroe and Broadway star Marilyn Miller. It was very popular in the 1930s and holds a glamorous charm.

Meredith

Derived from the Welsh names Maredudd or Meredydd, Meredith means “great ruler.”

This unisex name was widely used in the Middle Ages and offers a gentle, classic feel. The nickname Merry adds a playful touch.

Mildred

An Old English name meaning “gentle strength,” Mildred was popular due to Saint Mildred in the seventh century.

Although it became less common after the Norman conquest, it remained in the top 10 in the U.S. from 1903 to 1926. Modern nicknames like Milly could help revive this name.

Biblical Girl Names That Start With M

Maacah

This Hebrew name means “to crush” and can be found in the Old Testament.

It is used for both female and male characters. One notable Maacah was the wife of King David and the mother of Absalom and Tamar.

Madonna

Madonna, meaning “my lady,” is a title given to the Virgin Mary.

Aside from its biblical roots, the name is also famous because of the singer Madonna. It’s an interesting choice for anyone who loves biblical names or music.

Mahalath

Mahalath, of Hebrew origin, means “lyre.”

This name appears in the Old Testament and was the daughter of Ishmael. She became the wife of Esau.

Mara

Mara is a Hebrew name meaning “bitter.”

It is found in the Book of Ruth, where Naomi changes her name to Mara after the loss of her two sons. This name is growing in popularity in the United States and is also common in Hungary, Croatia, and Serbia.

Martha

Martha is a name of Aramaic origin meaning “lady.”

In the New Testament, Martha is the sister of Lazarus and Mary of Bethany. She witnessed Jesus resurrect her brother. Other notable figures named Martha include TV personality Martha Stewart and First Lady Martha Washington.

Mary

Mary is a quintessential biblical name with rich history.

Found six times in the New Testament, Mary means “beloved” or “drop of the sea.” The most famous Mary is the mother of Jesus, but other notable Marys include Mary Magdalene, two English Queens, and Mary Queen of Scots. Even fictional character Mary Poppins adds to the name’s charm.

Melcha

Melcha is a unique biblical name appearing in the Greek and Latin Old Testament.

It is a variation of the name Milcah.

Micaiah

Micaiah, used for both females and males in the Old Testament, means “who is like God?” in Hebrew.

Micaiah was the mother of King Abijah in the second Book of Chronicles. A charming nickname option could be Mica.

Milcah

Milcah is a Hebrew name meaning “queen.” In the Old Testament, she is the wife of Nahor and daughter of Zelophehad. It’s a unique alternative to more common biblical names.

Miriam

Miriam is the Hebrew version of Mary and appears in the Old Testament as the elder sister of Moses and Aaron. Known as “Miriam the Prophetess,” she is believed to have helped deliver the Jews from exile. This name denotes both strength and beauty.

International Girl Names That Start With M

Maaike

This Dutch name is a smaller version of Maria, likely meaning “beloved.” Maaike could be a special choice for those with Dutch roots or an affection for Dutch customs.

Maarika

Originating in both Estonia and Finland, Maarika is a diminutive of Maarja or Maaria, which are both forms of Maria.

Macarena

A Spanish baby girl name, Macarena might bring to mind the 1990s song, yet it is a traditional name in Spain and also a district in Seville. It likely stems from a Greek name that means “happy.”

Made

This Balinese name, pronounced ma-DEH, means “middle” in Sanskrit. It might be a great name choice for your second child.

Madhu

Madhu has Indian roots, widely used across India with the meaning “sweet, honey” in Sanskrit. A fitting name for a sweet baby girl.

Mai

Mai is a name with multiple origins and meanings, such as “apricot” in Vietnamese, “dance” in Japanese, and “month of May” in Estonian and Norwegian. It also has Arabic roots with an unclear meaning.

Makoto

A Japanese name meaning “sincerity.” It’s an excellent name for a sincere and honest girl, perfect for those who have Japanese heritage or an interest in Japanese names.

Mei

Meaning “beautiful” in Chinese, Mei is a lovely name pronounced MAY. It’s a fitting description for a beautiful new baby girl.

Mina

A name found in several cultures, Mina in Hinduism refers to the daughter of the Hindu goddess Ushas and means “fish” in Sanskrit. In Persian, it means “azure,” and in English and Dutch, it is often a short form of names ending in mina.

Misaki

This Japanese name means “beautiful” and “blossom.” It bears a lovely significance for a blossoming young girl.

Beautiful Girl Names That Start With M

Mabelle

This lovely variation of Mabel has roots in French. It comes from ma belle, which means “my beautiful.” The nickname Belle could also be a cute option.

Madara

In Latvian, Madara refers to a flowering plant called bedstraw. Flower names such as this are often a great choice for a girl’s name.

Magnolia

Magnolia gets its name from the flower named after French botanist Pierre Magnol. This fragrant flower is an excellent choice for a baby born in spring.

Maple

This unique botanical name is derived from the tree. It’s perfect for nature lovers. Maple is also the title of a 1923 poem by Robert Frost, where the protagonist explores the origins of her name.

Marigold

Marigold means “golden flower.” It is a fitting choice for a golden-haired baby girl. The marigold is also a symbol of the Virgin Mary and appears in J.R.R. Tolkien’s work as the name of Samwise Gamgee’s sister.

May

May is a beautiful name for girls born in the month of May. It is derived from Maia, the Roman goddess of Spring, evoking images of new life and fresh starts.

Meadow

The name Meadow originates from the English word for a field of grass and flowers. Fans of The Sopranos will recognize this name as Tony Soprano’s daughter’s name.

Melia

In Greek, Melia means “ash tree” or “honey.” This name comes from Greek mythology and was the name of a nymph, daughter of the Greek god Okeanos, adding a hint of mystery.

Mele

Mele, of Hawaiian origin, means “song.” It is a perfect name for music enthusiasts and is also a variant of the name Mary.

Millicent

Millicent has German origins meaning “strong in work.” It offers cute diminutives like Milly. This name also appears in works by Anne Bronte, Henry James, and in Harry Potter.

Short and Cute Girl Names That Start With M

Macy

This cute and playful name comes from England and means “hill.” It might bring to mind the famous department store, but it also finds a namesake in singer Macy Gray.

Madge

A sweet, old-fashioned alternative to Margaret, meaning “pearl.” It’s a cute nickname and the name of singer Madonna.

Mae

Mae is a diminutive of Mary or Margaret and a variation of May. This name could be a unique choice, especially for a baby girl born in May. It’s also the name of actress Mae West.

Maia

Maia has Greek origins and means “mother.” In Greek mythology, Maia was the daughter of Atlas, and in Roman myth, she was the goddess of spring. A name that feels both unique and ethereal.

Maisie

This Scottish diminutive of Mairead has long been popular in the UK and has recently gained fame in the US, thanks to Game of Thrones actress Maisie Williams. Names ending in ie or y often have an extra touch of cuteness.

Margot

Margot is a French name meaning “pearl” and is pronounced MAR-GO. It’s cute and trendy, with namesakes such as actress Margot Robbie and a character in The Royal Tenenbaums. A charming pick for movie lovers.

Meg

A diminutive of Megan or Margaret, Meg offers a stylish and strong option. It’s also the name of one of the March sisters in Little Women and actress Meg Ryan.

Mo

Mo, short for Maureen, is simple and adorable. It can be a cute and trendy given name or a nickname.

Moon

For those who love celestial names, Moon is a short and unique choice that promises to make your little one shine.

Myra

This name might be based on the word myrrh, a sweet-smelling resin. It’s also a rearrangement of Mary created by seventeenth-century poet Fulke Greville. It’s both beautiful and cute for any baby girl.