Marie-Thérèse is a compound French feminine given name combining Marie and Thérèse. The name reflects a French tradition of hyphenated devotional names that honor the Virgin Mary and Saint Thérèse of Lisieux. Etymology and History The first element, Marie, is the French form of Maria, meaning "beloved" or "sea of bitterness." It has been exceptionally popular in France since the 13th century, at one point given to around 20% of French girls. The second element, Thérèse, comes from the Greek theraō meaning "to hunt" or possibly the name of the island of Thera (Santorini). Notable Bearers Marie-Thérèse Abena Ondoa (born 1942) is a Cameroonian politician and former minister. Marie-Thérèse Armentero (born 1965) is a Swiss swimmer. Marie-Thérèse Assiga Ahanda (1941–2014) was a Cameroonian novelist and chemist. Marie-Thérèse Auffray (1912–1990) was a French artist. Marie Thérèse Boisselet (1731–1800) was a Royal mistress to Louis XV. Marie-Thérèse Bonnet (born 1955) was a French luger. Marie-Thérèse Bourgeois Chouteau (1733–1814) was an early American colonial matriarch in St. Louis. Marie-Thérèse Clauzel (born 1951) is a French former Olympic figure skater. Cultural Significance The name evokes two prominent French saints: the Virgin Mary (Notre Dame) and Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as "The Little Flower." Historically, the name gained visibility through Archduchess Marie-Thérèse of Austria and Queen Marie-Thérèse, wife of Louis XIV. Today, it remains a classic two-name combination in French-speaking regions and among Catholic families worldwide. Meaning: Combination of Marie and Thérèse Origin: French Type: Compound given name (feminine) Usage Regions: France, Belgium, Switzerland, Canada, and other French-speaking areas