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Name Origin

Miriam is a Hebrew name meaning 'bitterness' or 'rebelliousness'. It is traditionally associated with biblical figures, most notably Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron.

hebrewbiblicalfeminine

Famous People

Miriam Makeba (1932-2008)

Singer and Activist

  • Known as 'Mama Africa'
  • Vocalist of traditional Xhosa music
  • Advocate against apartheid

Miriam Defrieses (1937-)

Politician

  • First woman to serve as Mayor of Washington D.C.
  • First African American woman elected president of the Metropolitan Council

Miriam Margolyes (1941-)

Actress

  • Known for roles in Harry Potter films and other film and television productions
  • Won a BAFTA award

Miriam O'Reilly

Journalist and Television Presenter

  • Known for presenting Countryfile and BBC News
  • Successfully challenged age discrimination at the BBC