Rosemary

Etymology

Rosemary is a feminine given name of English origin, coined as a combination of the names Rose and Mary. It can also be given in reference to the herb rosemary, which gets its name from Latin ros marinus meaning "dew of the sea". The name came into use in the 19th century, a period when floral and nature-inspired names were popular.

Cultural Significance

Rosemary is often associated with remembrance and fidelity, partly from Shakepeare's Hamlet where Ophelia says: "There's rosemary, that's for remembrance." This literary connection has reinforced its usage as a given name.

Variants and Related Names

Variants include Rosemarie, a common form in Germanic languages. Diminutives include Romy and Romey. In Portuguese, the equivalent is Rosimeire.

Notable Bearers

• Rosemary Clooney, American singer and actress (1928–2002)
• Rosemary Kennedy, sister of U.S. President John F. Kennedy (1918–2005)