The name Mamie originated as a French pet form or diminutive of the name Marie, which itself derives from the ancient Hebrew name Miryam. The name Miryam likely comes from the Hebrew elements mar meaning "bitter" or "beloved," and am meaning "mother." So, the name could convey meanings like "beloved mother" or "bitter mother." Marie entered French from its Latin form Maria, though the Hebrew derivation remains uncertain.

The diminutive form Mamie emerged in the 17th century as a French term of endearment for Marie, similar to how English has pet forms like Mamie, Mammy, Mame, and Mimi for Mary. It was also spelled Mammie in French texts throughout the 1600s and 1700s. Though seen as an old-fashioned name today, Mamie maintained steady usage in France for centuries.

One of the earliest known bearers was Mamie Petit (1622-1668), a French nun from Normandy who helped found a Benedictine convent. Another early Mamie was Mamie Camus (1655-1733), a French Benedictine nun renowned for her stringent devotion to her vows.

In the 1800s, Mamie Giraud (1827-1898) was a French opera singer who performed throughout Europe. Mamie Boisnard (1855-1934) was a French teacher and women's rights activist who fought for improved education access for girls.

Perhaps the most famous Mamie in history was Mamie Eisenhower (1896-1979), the wife of 34th U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Her full name was Mamie Geneva Doud Eisenhower. Born in Iowa, she met Dwight in Texas and their marriage lasted over 60 years until his death.