Minny

Diminutive of Wilhelmina, German

"resolute protection; love"

Minny Origin and Meaning

The name Minny is a girl's name.

Minny is a feminine name with a warm, vintage charm, typically functioning as a diminutive for names like Minerva, Wilhelmina, or Jemima. It has historical roots as a nickname, particularly popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The name evokes a friendly, approachable personality with its soft sounds and endearing quality. Minny experienced a slight resurgence in interest following the popularity of the novel and film 'The Help,' which featured a character with this name. As a standalone name, it remains relatively uncommon, appealing to parents drawn to nostalgic, sweet-sounding names with a touch of Southern charm. Its brevity and simple spelling add to its appeal as an unpretentious yet distinctive choice.

Famous People Named Minny

• Harriet Marian "Minny" Thackeray daughter of novelist William M. Thackeray
• Minny Temple cousin of novelist Henry James who inspired Milly Theale in "The Wings of the Dove"

The name Minny in Pop Culture

• Minny Jackson the maid from the movie "The Help"
• Minny minivan in Pixar's "Cars"
• Minny Belle Tompkins character in musical "Johnny Johnson"