Miriam
Miriam first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1924, when 1,834 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 1,262.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Miriam popular?
Steady Miriam has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 1924.
| 2020s | 7,334 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 10,927 | |
| 2000s | 11,356 | |
| 1990s | 10,071 | |
| 1980s | 7,729 | |
| 1970s | 6,433 | |
| 1960s | 8,084 | |
| 1950s | 9,544 | |
| 1940s | 7,107 | |
| 1930s | 8,348 | |
| 1920s | 15,504 | |
| 1910s | 11,048 | |
| 1900s | 2,566 | |
| 1890s | 1,397 | |
| 1880s | 462 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Miriam mean?
An ancient Hebrew name of debated meaning, variously read “beloved,” “bitter,” or “of the sea.” Miriam is the sister of Moses.
Nicknames for Miriam
- Miri
Names like Miriam
Hebrew names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Miriam
Popular Hebrew names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Miriam
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Miriam mean?
Miriam means Of debated origin. An ancient Hebrew name of debated meaning, variously read “beloved,” “bitter,” or “of the sea.” Miriam is the sister of Moses.
What is the origin of the name Miriam?
Miriam is of Hebrew origin.
How do you pronounce Miriam?
Miriam is pronounced “MEER-ee-um.”
Is Miriam a boy or a girl name?
Miriam is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Miriam a popular name right now?
Miriam has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 1924.
How popular is the name Miriam?
In 2025, Miriam ranked #246 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Miriam most popular?
Miriam was most popular in 1924, when about 1,834 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Miriam?
Common nicknames for Miriam include Miri.
What names are similar to Miriam?
Names similar to Miriam include Mary, Naomi, Ruth, Leah.
What names go well with Miriam?
Hebrew names that pair well with Miriam include James, Michael, John, David, Mary.