Mimi: Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

At a Glance

Meaning
Pet form (hypocorism) of Michelle, Miriam, María, or Mary; has no independent meaning of its own
Origin
French/Italian
Gender
Girl
Pronunciation
MEE-mee

Mimi is a French/Italian girl's name meaning “pet form (hypocorism) of Michelle, Miriam, María, or Mary; has no independent meaning of its own”. It appears in our list of 200+ Retro Baby Girl Names Making a Chic Comeback.

Meaning & Origin of Mimi

Meaning: Pet form (hypocorism) of Michelle, Miriam, María, or Mary; has no independent meaning of its own.

Origin: French/Italian.

A common claim: Often said to mean 'sea of bitterness' via its association with Miriam. Actually: Mimi carries no meaning of its own beyond being a pet form; and even 'sea of bitterness' for Miriam itself is a popular folk etymology -- Miriam's actual origin is uncertain/disputed among scholars, possibly Egyptian.

Source: Wiktionary, Wikipedia.

How to Pronounce Mimi

MEE-meeIPA /ˈmiːmiː/

Popularity of Mimi

Lists That Include Mimi

Similar Names

Winnie · Ginny · Josie · Lulu · Lettie · Tess

More Baby Name Inspiration