mary

Ma-ry · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A female given name of Hebrew origin.

  2. 2.

    **(the Virgin Mary)** The mother of Jesus Christ in Christian tradition.

  3. 3.

    Used in various expressions and exclamations.

Forms

plural: Marys

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    Hail Mary — A Catholic prayer; a desperate attempt.
  • •
    Bloody Mary — A cocktail; Queen Mary I of England.
  • •
    Mary Jane — Shoes with a strap; slang for marijuana.
  • •
    Typhoid Mary — A person who spreads disease or trouble.

Related words

See also: Maria, Marie, Miriam

Etymology

From Latin Maria, from Greek Mariam or Maria, from Hebrew Miryam (Miriam). The meaning is uncertain; possibly "sea of bitterness," "rebellion," or "wished-for child." One of the most common female names in Western history due to its biblical significance.