Mallory is a distinctive boys' name in United States, ranking #5696 in 1998 with 11 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2004 with 13 births ranking #6018. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 57.1%. In 1998, approximately 1 in every 173,756 boys born was named Mallory. FALLING Recent data shows the name is currently falling.
Mallory is a stylish surname name with a surprisingly stark original meaning often given as 'unfortunate' or 'ill-fated'. Modern use focuses far more on its polished sound than on that old literal sense.
The name moved from surname use into first-name use because of its elegant rhythm and tailored feel. It remains a good example of how attractive sound can outweigh an older meaning in modern naming.