Mollie

Mollie is a spelling of Molly, a traditional English pet form of Mary. Its history leads back to Hebrew Miriam, whose original meaning is uncertain. “Bitter,” “beloved,” and sea-related explanations appear in name references, but none should be presented as a settled translation of Mollie. The name’s well-established family connection is clearer than its ultimate etymology.

The -ie ending gives Mollie a different written appearance from Molly without normally changing the pronunciation. It can be the full name or an affectionate everyday form for a Mary in the family. Mol is a possible further shortening, although the complete name is already brief. Parents deciding between the two spellings may simply prefer the one connected with a relative or a meaningful personal association.