Mallory
Mallory is a girl name of French origin meaning “Unlucky, unfortunate”, pronounced MAL-uh-ree. It ranked #372 in the United States in 2025, given to 825 babies, and peaked at #83 in 1986. Common nicknames: Mal, Mallie.
How popular is Mallory in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Mallory mean, and where does it come from?
Mallory derives from the Old French "malheure" or Norman "malheureux," meaning "unlucky" or "unfortunate" — an ironic origin for what has become a stylish, upbeat modern name. Brought to England by the Normans, it existed for centuries as a surname, borne notably by Sir Thomas Malory, the 15th-century author of "Le Morte d'Arthur." As a first name, Mallory became fashionable for girls in the United States in the 1980s, partly influenced by the character Mallory Keaton on the sitcom "Family Ties." Its sophisticated sound belies its curious etymological meaning.
How is Mallory used around the world?
Mallory is used in 0 languages worldwide, with 4+ international variants.
TypeUnisex name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Mallory?
Famous People Named Mallory
- Mallory Pugh (Swanson) — American professional soccer player
- Thomas Malory — English author of Le Morte d'Arthur
- Mallory Keaton — character from the TV series Family Ties
Similar Names to Mallory
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Sibling Name Ideas for Mallory
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Mallory mean?
Mallory is a girl name of French origin meaning "Unlucky, unfortunate." Mallory derives from the Old French "malheure" or Norman "malheureux," meaning "unlucky" or "unfortunate" — an ironic origin for what has become a stylish, upbeat modern name. Brought to England by the Normans, it existed for centuries as a surname, borne notably by Sir Thomas Malory, the 15th-century author of "Le Morte d'Arthur.
How do you pronounce Mallory?
Mallory is pronounced MAL-uh-ree. Common variations include Malorie, Malory, Mallery.
Is Mallory a girl name?
Yes, Mallory is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Mal, Mallie.