Mallory

Unlucky, unfortunate — a girl name of French origin

GenderGirl
OriginFrench
MeaningUnlucky, unfortunate
PronunciationMAL-uh-ree

Popularity of Mallory in the United States

#372Rank in 2025
825Births in 2025
#83 in 1986Peak Popularity
→ Stable10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Mallory

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.

Mallory Around the World

Mallory is used in 0 languages worldwide, with 4+ international variants.

Languages
Details

TypeUnisex name

International Variants
MaloBreton
MallEstonian
Malaury
Malory

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Mallory

MalMallie

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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Also consider:Marlowe

Sibling Name Ideas for Mallory

Looking for names that pair well with Mallory? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.

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.

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