"unfortunate, ill-omened"
Origin: Old French
Language: French
Malorie
Girl Name
#2,800 Most Popular
Hidden Gem
3 Syllables
A name that sounds beautiful despite its dark etymology
English
American
French
Modern
Bold
Literary
Strong
Unique
Meaning & Origin
"unlucky one"
Origin: Norman French
Language: English
Things to Know About This Name
- Etymology means 'unfortunate/ill-omened' — most parents are unaware of this negative literal meaning
The Story of Malorie
Malorie is a variant spelling of Mallory, which comes from the Old French 'malheureux' or 'maleüré,' meaning 'unfortunate' or 'ill-omened.' Despite this gloomy etymology, Mallory was introduced to England by Normans after 1066 and became a respectable surname, then a given name. The irony is that this name with such a negative literal meaning has become widely used precisely because its sound is so pleasant — most parents have no idea what it means.
Mallory/Malorie gained significant popularity in the 1980s through the character Mallory Keaton on the TV show Family Ties (1982-1989). The thriller novel and film Bird Box (2018) featured a protagonist named Malorie, giving the specific spelling renewed visibility.
Despite its etymological baggage, Mallory/Malorie has shed its negative meaning in modern usage and simply functions as a stylish, distinctly English name. The Bird Box connection made Malorie specifically associated with fierce survival and maternal strength.
Fun Facts
- Mallory literally means 'unfortunate' or 'ill-omened' in Old French — something most parents don't know
- Family Ties (1982-89) popularized the name through character Mallory Keaton played by Justine Bateman
- The 2014 novel Bird Box and its 2018 Netflix film featured a protagonist named Malorie
Malorie in Other Languages
French
Mallorie
German
Malorie
English
Mallory
Italian
Malorie
Spanish
Malorie
Famous People Named Malorie
M
Mallory Pugh
Athlete
1998
American soccer player and NWSL midfielder known for her time with the Chicago Red Stars
M
Mallory Keaton Fictional
Other
Fictional character on the TV sitcom Family Ties (1982-1989), played by Justine Bateman
M
Malorie (Bird Box) Fictional
Other
Fictional protagonist of the novel Bird Box by Josh Malerman and its 2018 Netflix adaptation
Quick Facts
- Gender
- Girl
- Syllables
- 3
- Popularity Rank
- #2,800
- Total SSA Count
- 60
- Cultural Origins
- English American French
- Pronunciation
- Easy
- Formality
- Moderate
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- High
Alternative Spellings
Common Nicknames
Mal
Lori
Mallie
Pairs Well With
Malorie Anne
Malorie Grace
Malorie Jane
Malorie Claire
Malorie Lynn
Malorie Rose
Malorie Kate
Sibling Names
Similar Names
Playground Safety
Kid-Friendly
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Frequently Asked Questions About Malorie
What does the name Malorie mean?
"unfortunate, ill-omened" (from Old French). "unlucky one" (from Norman French). Malorie is a variant spelling of Mallory, which comes from the Old French 'malheureux' or 'maleüré,' meaning 'unfortunate' or 'ill-omened.' Despite this gloomy etymology, Mallory was introduced to England by Normans after 1066 and became a respectable surname, then a given name. The irony is that this name with such a negative literal meaning has become widely used precisely because its sound is so pleasant — most parents have no idea what it means.
What is the origin of the name Malorie?
Malorie has Old French, Norman French, English, American, and French origins. In Old French, it means "unfortunate, ill-omened". In Norman French, it means "unlucky one".
Is Malorie a boy or girl name?
Malorie is primarily used as a girl name.
How popular is the name Malorie?
Malorie is currently ranked #2800 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
What are common nicknames for Malorie?
Common nicknames for Malorie include Mal, Lori, and Mallie.
What are good middle names for Malorie?
Popular middle name pairings include Malorie Anne, Malorie Grace, Malorie Jane, Malorie Claire, Malorie Lynn, Malorie Rose, and Malorie Kate.
What are good sibling names for Malorie?
Names that pair well with Malorie as siblings include Avery, Harper, Logan, Riley, Piper, Declan, and Quinn.
How many syllables does Malorie have?
Malorie has 3 syllables, making it distinctive and rhythmic.
Is Malorie a common or rare name?
Malorie is an uncommon name, ranked #2800 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.
About the Name Malorie
Malorie is a girl name with English, American, and French origins . The name means "unfortunate, ill-omened" in Old French .
Malorie is currently ranked #2,800 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
The name Malorie has 3 syllables, making it distinctive and memorable.
Common nicknames for Malorie include Mal, Lori, and Mallie. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.
Alternative spellings of Malorie include Maloni . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.