Miriam
GirlHebrew
Miriam is a girl name of Hebrew origin meaning "Bitter, wished-for child".
About this name
Gender
Girl
Language
Hebrew
Religion
Jewish
Popularity
14 / 100
Syllables
2
Length
6 letters
Meaning
Bitter, wished-for child
Etymology
Derived from Hebrew מרyam (Miryam), possibly from Egyptian root meri (beloved) or Hebrew mar (bitter).
Famous People Named Miriam
- Miriam Makeba — South African singer and civil rights activist (1932–2008)
- Miriam Margolyes — British-Australian actress
- Miriam Ziegler — Austrian pair skater
Frequently Asked Questions About Miriam
What does the name Miriam mean?
Miriam means "Bitter, wished-for child", and is of Hebrew origin.
What is the origin of the name Miriam?
Miriam originates from Hebrew, commonly used in Middle East.
Is Miriam a boy or girl name?
Miriam is typically used as a girl name.
What religion is the name Miriam associated with?
Miriam is associated with Jewish.
Are there famous people named Miriam?
Yes — notable people named Miriam include Miriam Makeba (South African singer and civil rights activist, 1932–2008), Miriam Margolyes (British-Australian actress) and Miriam Ziegler (Austrian pair skater).
Last updated: June 2026