Rosemary
Rosemary is a girl name of Latin origin meaning “Dew of the sea”, pronounced ROHZ-mair-ee. It ranked #251 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,222 babies, and peaked at #74 in 1946. Common nicknames: Rosie, Rose, Mary.
How popular is Rosemary 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 Rosemary mean, and where does it come from?
Rosemary derives from the Latin "ros marinus" meaning "dew of the sea," referring to the fragrant herb that grows along Mediterranean coastlines. Though it appears to combine the names Rose and Mary, the name actually has an independent botanical origin. The rosemary herb has been a symbol of remembrance since ancient times, as referenced in Shakespeare's Hamlet. As a given name, Rosemary became popular in the English-speaking world in the 19th century, blending the charm of a nature name with the warmth of two beloved traditional names. It carries an old-fashioned elegance that has found renewed appeal.
How is Rosemary used around the world?
Rosemary is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 9+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Rosemary?
Famous People Named Rosemary
- Rosemary Clooney — American singer and actress
- Rosemary Harris — British actress
- Rosemary Sutcliff — British novelist
Similar Names to Rosemary
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Sibling Name Ideas for Rosemary
Looking for names that pair well with Rosemary? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Rosemary mean?
Rosemary is a girl name of Latin origin meaning "Dew of the sea." Rosemary derives from the Latin "ros marinus" meaning "dew of the sea," referring to the fragrant herb that grows along Mediterranean coastlines. Though it appears to combine the names Rose and Mary, the name actually has an independent botanical origin.
How do you pronounce Rosemary?
Rosemary is pronounced ROHZ-mair-ee. Common variations include Rosemarie, Rosmarie, Rozemary.
Is Rosemary a girl name?
Yes, Rosemary is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Rosie, Rose, Mary, Romy.