Meaning
Star of the sea, bitter
Origin
Hebrew, Irish
Gender
Girl / Female
Pronunciation
MAH-lee
Name story
What Molly communicates
Molly is a girl name of Hebrew, Irish origin meaning "Star of the sea, bitter". That gives it a clear, rooted emotional tone that is easy to connect with and quick to remember.
It is pronounced MAH-lee and sits at a popularity score of 48/100 in our index, which suggests how widely it is chosen today. Names in this range tend to appeal to parents who want something recognizable yet still distinctive.
If Molly feels close but not quite right, the related names and theme links below lead to options that share its Hebrew, Irish heritage or its core idea of "Star of the sea, bitter". Comparing a few side by side is the easiest way to settle on the name that fits your family best.
Famous People Named Molly
- MMolly Ringwald
- MMolly Bloom
Names with Similar Meanings
Names that share similar themes and meanings with Molly
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Molly mean?
The name Molly means "Star of the sea, bitter". It is a name of Hebrew, Irish origin that has been carried across many cultures and generations. The meaning reflects qualities valued in Hebrew, Irish naming tradition, which is part of why parents who want a name with a clear, positive sense often choose Molly.
What is the origin of the name Molly?
Molly originates from Hebrew, Irish. Names of Hebrew, Irish origin tend to carry deep historical and cultural significance, shaped by language, religion, and tradition over centuries. Molly fits that pattern: its roots give it the meaning "Star of the sea, bitter" and connect it to a long lineage of related names that share the same heritage.
Is Molly a popular name?
Molly appears on baby-name popularity charts across many English-speaking countries. Its usage has shifted across generations, rising and falling with cultural moments, famous bearers, and naming trends. You can see where Molly sits relative to other names on its popularity score above, and compare it with similar names in the same style.
What names are similar to Molly?
Names similar to Molly include those with shared origins, related meanings, or a similar sound and rhythm. The related names and similar-meaning sections above list strong alternatives, so if you love Molly but want options, you can explore names that carry the same Hebrew, Irish heritage or the same idea of "Star of the sea, bitter".
How do you pronounce Molly?
Molly is pronounced "MAH-lee". Pronunciation can vary slightly by region and language, but this guide reflects the most common way the name Molly is said.
Is Molly a boy or a girl name?
Molly is most commonly used as a girl name. Like many names it can cross gender lines depending on culture, era, and family preference, but its Hebrew, Irish roots and traditional usage are reflected on this page. If you want a clearly gender-neutral option, browse our unisex names for alternatives.
What does the name Molly symbolize?
The name Molly symbolizes "Star of the sea, bitter". That theme gives Molly a distinct emotional tone that many parents connect with, and it links the name to a wider family of names built on the same idea. Exploring names that share the meaning "Star of the sea, bitter" is a good way to find alternatives with a similar feeling.
Is Molly a good baby name?
Molly is a meaningful choice: it carries the meaning "Star of the sea, bitter", has clear Hebrew, Irish heritage, and a recognizable pronunciation. Whether it is the right baby name depends on your taste, family traditions, and how it pairs with your surname.