Top Baby Girl Names That Start With M

While awaiting your new arrival, there’s nothing more exciting than choosing a name to fit your baby girl. If you’re drawn to girl names starting with M, or perhaps M names run in your family, we’ve got some great choices of beautiful, popular, unique, biblical, cute, and even some international names that all start with the letter M.

Popular Girl Names That Start With M

If you’re looking for a popular and common female name that starts with the letter M, then check out the top 10 girl names in the United States for 2020: 1. Mia. Hitting the top spot is the beautiful name Mia. In 2009, this diminutive of Maria entered the top 10 names for girls in the United States; however, it was already popular in many other countries and continues to be a top girl’s name to this day. Meaning “mine” in Italian, this name has popular namesakes, such as actresses Mia Farrow and Mia Wasikowska. The main character in the movie and book series, the Princess Diaries, used the name Mia as a short form of Amelia.

2. Mila. Coming up next on the list of top names for girls is this name of Russian origin meaning “gracious” or “dear.” It’s usually the diminutive of Slavic names containing mil, such as the girl’s name starting with L, Ludmila, or Milena. Actress Mila Kunis was born Milena.

3. Madison. Another popular girl’s name starting with M is Madison, originally from an English surname meaning “son of Maud.” This name became a popular female name after the 1984 movie Splash, in which the character took her name from a street sign in New York’s Madison Avenue.

4. Maya. This popular name and variation of Maia means “water” in Hebrew and “illusion” in Sanskrit. It’s also the name of an indigenous group from Central America and southern Mexico. This beautiful name, reminiscent of the month of May, is the name of poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou, an inspirational namesake for your baby girl.

5. Madelyn. This popular variant of Madeline (also in our top 10 list) is the English form of the French name Magdelene meaning “woman from Magdala.” Madelyn has become the most popular spelling of this name.

6. Madeline. The more classic version of Madelyn, with the same origin, would also fit well into the old-fashioned M girl names list. Madeline is the name of the heroine in Ludwig Bemelmans charming children’s book series. What little girl wouldn’t love to imagine themselves as the main character in a book!

7. Melanie. This name of Greek origin meaning “dark” is a great choice for your dark-haired little lady. In the Middle Ages, Melanie was introduced to England from France, but it most notably became popular after the 1930s novel and movie Gone with the Wind with the character Melanie Wilkes.

8. Melody. If you’re from a family of musicians or singers, this popular name might be a great choice for your baby girl. It’s of Greek origin meaning “song.”

9. Maria. This timeless name doesn’t need much introduction due to its popularity in many European and Spanish-speaking countries. Of Latin origin, possible meanings of Maria are “beloved,” or “drop of the sea.” Not only does it have countless namesakes, but it’s also celebrated in songs, such as “Ave Maria,” “How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria” from The Sound of Music, and “Maria” in West Side Story.

10. Mackenzie. Last on our list of popular M girl names is a name originated from a Scottish surname. This cool name with diminutives such as Mac or Kenzie became popular as a girls’ name after 1975 due to the One Day at a Time actress Mackenzie Philips.

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Unique Girl Names That Start With M

Are you looking for a rare name for your unique little lady? Perhaps you want something that stands out from the crowd. Well, we’ve got a list of some beautifully interesting and rare girl names that start with M: 11. Maayan. This unique name meaning “spring of water” in Hebrew is a popular unisex name in Israel. It could be an interesting twist on the popular name Maya, or a great choice for a water sign (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) baby.

12. Mabyn. A rare name of Cornish origin meaning “youth,” Mabyn was the name of a sixth-century saint, the daughter of Brychan Brycheiniog, a legendary Welsh king.

13. Maeve. Pronounced MAYV, this unique M name for girls comes from the Irish name Medb meaning “intoxicating.” In Irish Mythology, Maeve of Connacht was a warrior queen in the tale The Cattle Raid of Cooley. This name is a strong and unique alternative to May or Mavis.

14. Maiara. When you hear this name it may remind you of Maia, Mara, or Mia, but this beautiful name of Tupi origin is definitely more unique. Meaning “wise,” Maiara has a melodic and modern sound to it.

15. Mairead. This name of Irish origin is a variation of Margaret meaning “pearl.” It’s pronounced ma-REYD and could be an interesting choice if you have Irish heritage.

16. Marley. Originally from an English surname meaning “pleasant wood,” Marley is a great choice if you’re looking for a unique and gender-neutral name. If you’re a fan of Jamaican musician Bob Marley, you may enjoy this name.

17. Menodora. This name of Ancient Greek origin means “gift of the moon.” It was the name of a martyred fourth-century saint. Her sisters were named Metrodora and Nymphodora. If you have three daughters, how about getting extra unique with those three names!

18. Merida. You may recognize this uncommon name from the Disney movie Brave, about a young, strong-willed Scottish princess with fiery red hair. The meaning of this name is unknown; however, it may come from the Spanish city of Merida. It’s a unique option for your brave little princess.

19. Mirabelle. If you want a fresh alternative to other belle names, this French name meaning “wonderful” is an excellent choice that you won’t hear often. You could also choose the Italian version, Mirabella. You need a name as “wonderful” as your baby girl!

20. Muirne. If you want a unique M name for your baby girl, then look no further than one with origins in Irish Mythology. Muirne was the mother of mythical warrior Fionn mac Cumhaill who was told to have built the Giants Causeway on the coast of Northern Ireland. This name means “affection” or “festivity,” both of which will ring true once your little one comes into the world.

More Unique Girl Names That Start With M

If you want to keep going with unique girl names that start with m, we’ve got even more for you to choose from:

Choosing a baby name can be fun yet also overwhelming. Watch this video for some exciting facts that could help you find the perfect baby name!

Old-Fashioned M Girl Names

If you’re looking for a classic vintage name, something that will stand the test of time, then check out this great list of old-fashioned girl names that start with M: 31. Mabel. This classic diminutive of Amabel was popular during the Middle Ages and has proven its timelessness by making a comeback in the nineteenth century thanks to C.M. Yonge’s novel The Heir of Redclyffe. In Latin it means “loveable,” making it a sweet and vintage choice for your little lady.

32. Megan. A Welsh diminutive of another vintage name, Margaret, meaning “pearl.” Megan was on the rise between the 1950s and 1980s, so, perhaps this classic is ready for a comeback. Popular namesakes include actress Megan Fox, and if you’re a fan of royal baby names, the Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle adds a touch of royalty with her variation of the name.

33. Mandy. This diminutive of Amanda meaning “loveable” rose to popularity in the 1970s, giving it a cool vintage vibe. It’s not one you hear often anymore, but this fun name with a cute meaning could be just right for your baby girl. It even has its own song performed by singer Barry Manilow.

34. Margaret. A name of Greek origin meaning “pearl,” Margaret is the epitome of classic and old-fashioned charm. Not only was it the name of various queens and princesses throughout history, but also the patron saint of expectant mothers. This name could be a great choice if you are naming your baby after a family member.

35. Marian. This name of French medieval origin is a variation of Marie meaning “beloved.” Marian has a classic and romantic feel to it due to Maid Marian, the romantic interest of Robin Hood.

36. Marie. Like Marian, this French variation of Mary or Maria means “beloved.” Marie was one of the top ranked names in the late 1800s up until the mid-1900s but has declined in popularity since. However, with namesakes such as French queen Marie Antoinette and physicist Marie Curie, this French name has a sophisticated and classic feel that could make it perfect for a double name or middle name.

37. Marilyn. This combination of Mary and Lyn means “beloved,” and “lake.” When you hear this name, it’s hard not to think of actress Marilyn Monroe. Another popular namesake is Broadway star Marilyn Miller. Throughout the 1930s, Marilyn remained in the top 20 list of girl names in the United States.

38. Meredith. From the Welsh names Maredudd or Meredydd, meaning “great ruler,” this old-fashioned unisex name was popular during the Middle Ages. You could even use the nickname Merry to add a fun aspect to this gentle and classic name.

39. Mildred. An Old English name meaning “gentle strength,” Mildred was popular due to Saint Mildred in the seventh century; however, it became rare after the Norman conquest in the late ninth century. Between 1903 and 1926, Mildred sat in the top 10 list of girl names in the United States. With modern diminutives such as Milly, this name could become popular again.

More Old-Fashioned Girl Names That Start With M

If you’re a fan of bringing these old-fashioned girl names back, we have even more for you to enjoy:

Biblical Girl Names That Start With M

If you’re looking for a name with a religious or spiritual association or you simply appreciate the classics, check out this list of biblical names for girls that start with M. 51. Maacah. This Hebrew name meaning “to crush” is found in the Old Testament and is the name of both female and male characters. In one instance, Maacah was the wife of King David and mother of Absalom and Tamar.

52. Madonna. This name meaning “my lady” is the title given to the Virgin Mary. Aside from the Bible, you may recognize this name from the singer known simply as Madonna. So, whether you’re a fan of biblical names or music, this name is an interesting choice for your little lady.

53. Mahalath. This name of Hebrew origin means “lyre” and is found in the Old Testament. Mahalath was the daughter of Ishmael and the wife of Esau.

54. Mara. Meaning “bitter” in Hebrew, Mara appears in the Book of Ruth. She changed her name from Naomi to Mara after the loss of her two sons. This short and sweet name is not only on the rise in popularity in the United States, but it’s also a popular girl’s name in Hungary, Croatia, and Serbia.

55. Martha. A name of Aramaic origin meaning “lady.” In the New Testament, Martha is the sister of Lazarus and Mary of Bethany, and she witnessed Jesus resurrect her brother. Not only is Martha a classic biblical name, but it also has great namesakes such as TV personality Martha Stewart and, if you like presidential-inspired names, it was the name of First Lady Martha Washington.

56. Mary. If biblical names inspire you, then Mary is the quintessential New Testament name, with six Mary’s found within the Bible. This name meaning “beloved,” or “drop of the sea” is most notably borne by the mother of Jesus, as well as Mary Magdalene. It was also the name of two English Queens and Mary Queen of Scots, as well as popular fictional character Mary Poppins. A name rich in history and with plenty of inspiring namesakes.

57. Melcha. This unique biblical name is used in the Greek and Latin Old Testament. It is a variation of the name Milcah which we will also explore in this list.

58. Micaiah. This name was used for both females and males in the Old Testament and means “who is like God?” in Hebrew. Micaiah was the mother of King Abijah in the second Book of Chronicles. A cute nickname option could be Mica.

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

60. Miriam. This Hebrew version of Mary is found in the Old Testament as the elder sister of Moses and Aaron. She is often referred to as “Miriam the Prophetess” and was believed to have helped deliver the Jews from exile. This name classic name denotes strength and beauty.

More Biblical Girl Names That Start With M

International Girl Names That Start With M

Are you looking for a name that honors your family’s culture or heritage? Or perhaps you’re inspired by travel and other countries. Let’s take a trip around the world and look at some beautiful foreign girl names that start with M. 67. Maaike. This female Dutch name is a diminutive of Maria, possibly meaning “beloved.” Not much is known about this name, but it’s an interesting choice if you have Dutch ancestry or a love for their culture.

68. Maarika. A name with both Estonian and Finnish origins, Maarika is a diminutive of Maarja or Maaria, both of which are forms of Maria.

69. Macarena. This Spanish baby girl name may initially remind you of the popular 1990s song; however, Macarena is a traditional girls’ name in Spain and the name of a district in Seville. It is thought to derive from a Greek name meaning “happy.”

70. Made. Another international option is this Balinese name pronounced ma-DEH. In Sanskrit, Made means “middle.” Perhaps this could be a unique name choice for your second-born child.

71. Madhu. This name is of Indian origin used across India meaning “sweet, honey” in Sanskrit. No doubt your baby girl will be as sweet as honey.

72. Mai. If you want one name that takes you around the world, Mai is the one for you. This name has several origins and meanings, including “apricot” in Vietnamese, “dance” in Japanese, “month of May” in Estonian and Norwegian, as well as Arabic origins with unknown meaning. Wow! Mai is certainly a name rich in culture.

73. Makoto. This is a name of Japanese origin meaning “sincerity.” If you have Japanese heritage or you’re a fan of Japanese girl names, this cute name is perfect for your sincere and honest little girl.

74. Mei. Pronounced MAY, this cute name of Chinese origin means “beautiful.” There’s no better way to describe the new lady in your life.

75. Mina. Here’s another name that spans several countries. In Hinduism, Mina is the daughter of Hindu goddess Ushas, and the name means “fish” in Sanskrit. In Persian this name means “azure,” whereas in English and Dutch, Mina is usually the short form of names ending in mina.

76. Misaki. Another delightful name of Japanese origin meaning “beautiful” and “blossom.” A lovely meaning for your blossoming baby girl.

More International Girl Names That Start With M

We have even more international names starting with M for you to choose from:

Beautiful Girl Names That Start With M

Do you want a name inspired by nature? Or with a meaning that reflects the beauty of your little one? Take a look at our list of the most pretty and beautiful girl names that start with M: 87. Mabelle. This pretty version of Mabel comes from the French ma belle meaning “my beautiful.” You simply couldn’t get much more beautiful than that. You could even consider the nickname Belle as a cute B name for girls.

88. Madara. In Latvian, Madara is the name of the flowering plant, bedstraw. Flower names for girls are always a great choice if you’re looking for a beautiful name. We’ve got plenty more botanical names waiting for you!

89. Magnolia. From the flower of the same name, named after French botanist Pierre Magnol. This sweet-smelling flower is perfect for a baby born in spring.

90. Maple. This less common botanical name comes from the name of the tree. A unique choice for nature lovers. Maple is also the name of Robert Frost’s 1923 poem, wherein the protagonist wonders about the origins of her name.

91. Marigold. Meaning “golden flower,” this beautiful name is a lovely choice for your golden-haired baby girl. The marigold is also a symbol of the Virgin Mary and for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien, you may recognize this as the name of Marigold Gamgee, sister of Samwise.

92. May. If your little one is born in the month of May, this name may be a beautiful choice. It’s derived from Maia, the Roman goddess of Spring. So, this name has an air of spring about it, bringing about images of new life and fresh beginnings.

93. Meadow. This unique nature name is from the English word meadow. For fans of the television series The Sopranos, you may recognize this as the name of Tony Soprano’s daughter.

94. Melia. In Greek, Melia means “ash tree,” or “honey.” This name comes from Greek Mythology and was the name of a nymph and the daughter of Greek god Okeanos. There is something beautiful and mystical about names inspired by Greek mythology.

95. Mele. Of Hawaiian origin meaning “song,” Mele is perfect for music lovers. It’s also a form of the name Mary.

96. Millicent. This name of German origin means “strong in work.” Not only does this name have cute diminutives, such as Milly, but for literature fans Millicent is a character in an Anne Bronte and a Henry James novel, as well as in Harry Potter.

More Beautiful Girl Names That Start With M

Short and Cute Girl Names That Start With M

Your baby girl is going to be the cutest addition to your life, so, she’s going to need a name that matches that. Check out our list of short and cute girl names that start with M: 106. Macy. This cute and playful sounding name is of English origin meaning “hill.” It may remind you of the department store chain, however, it also finds its namesake in singer Macy Gray.

107. Madge. A diminutive of the old-fashioned name Margaret meaning “pearl.” Madge is a cute alternative and is the nickname of singer Madonna.

108. Mae. Another diminutive of Mary or Margaret and a variation of May. This name could be a cute and unique alternative to the more common choices and perfect for your baby girl born in the month of May. It is the name of actress Mae West.

109. Maia. This name of Greek origin means “mother.” In Greek mythology, Maia was the daughter of Atlas and in Roman myth she was the goddess of spring. This name is a unique and ethereal choice for your little goddess.

110. Maisie. This Scottish diminutive of Mairead has been popular in the United Kingdom throughout the twentieth century but has recently rose to popularity in the United States due to Game of Thrones actress Maisie Williams. There’s something extra cute about names ending in ie or y.

111. Margot. This recently popular name of French origin means “pearl,” and is pronounced MAR-GO. This name is cute yet trendy sounding, with namesakes such as actress Margot Robbie and The Royal Tenenbaums character played by Gwyneth Paltrow. A cute choice for movie buffs.

112. Meg. This cute little diminutive of Megan or Margaret may be a more stylish and strong alternative. Meg is the name of one of the March sisters in the classic novel Little Women, as well as the name of actress Meg Ryan.

113. Mo. If you want short and cute, then look no further! Mo is a diminutive of the old-fashioned name Maureen. It could be used as a nickname or a cute and trendy given name.

114. Moon. If you’re a fan of celestial names, this short and unique name will make your little one shine bright.

115. Myra. Possibly based on the word myrrh, the sweet-smelling resin, this name was likely created by seventeenth-century poet Fulke Greville. It’s also believed that he simply rearranged the letters of Mary. Either way, this is a beautiful and cute name for your baby girl.

More Short and Cute Girl Names That Start With M

If you enjoy short names, we’ve got some great one-syllable girl names for you to discover, or check out more m names for girls below:

Even More Girl Names That Start With M

The Bottom Line

If you enjoyed these girl names starting with M, but you’re still exploring, why not check out these girl names that start with N, or Italian girl names and Hawaiian girl names for even more inspiration. We’ve got a whole world of names waiting for you. While you try to find the perfect name, you can take a few steps to get ready for your little one’s arrival. If your due date is coming soon, you may want to pack your hospital bag and download the Pampers Club app.