Moira

Moira is an English rendering associated with Máire, the Irish form of Mary, and it also has a history of use in Scotland. Like other members of the Mary family, its ultimate meaning is uncertain. Familiar interpretations such as “beloved” are part of the name's wider tradition, rather than a settled literal translation of Moira itself.

Dancer and actress Moira Shearer, known for The Red Shoes, gives the name a memorable artistic association. The spelling has a distinctly different appearance from Mary while still allowing that family connection to be carried forward. English speakers may have more than one pronunciation in mind, particularly around the oi, so the family's preferred sound is worth stating. Its short, complete form offers an established alternative within a very old name family.