Molly is a highly popular girls' name in England & Wales, ranking #46 in 2011 with 1,322 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2001 with 2,987 births ranking #15. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 34.7%. In 2011, approximately 1 in every 243 girls born was named Molly. FALLING Recent data shows the name is currently falling.
Molly is a warm, familiar classic that began as a pet form of Mary. Its exact traditional meaning follows the wider Mary family, where interpretations vary.
Once mainly a nickname, Molly has long been used as a full given name in English-speaking countries. Its staying power comes from its friendliness and effortless charm.