Molly is a moderately popular girls' name in United States, ranking #196 in 2025 with 1,601 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2011 with 3,615 births ranking #78. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 51.7%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 1,004 girls born was named Molly. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
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.