Mallory is a moderately popular girls' name in United States, ranking #234 in 2006 with 1,470 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2004 with 1,828 births ranking #188. In 2006, approximately 1 in every 1,293 girls born was named Mallory. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
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.