Mickey

Mickey is a masculine given name and nickname, typically a diminutive of Michael. It is also used as a standalone given name in English-speaking countries. While most often masculine, it has occasionally been given to girls as well, though such use is uncommon.

Notable people named Mickey include athletes, actors, and writers. For example, Mickey Mantle was a Hall of Fame baseball player for the New York Yankees; Mickey Rooney was a prolific American actor; Mickey Spillane was a best-selling crime novelist; and Mickey Rourke is an actor and screenwriter.

In popular culture, Mickey is best known as the name of Mickey Mouse, the iconic cartoon character created by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks. Debuting in 1928's Steamboat Willie, Mickey Mouse became a central figure in animation and a corporate emblem for The Walt Disney Company. The name also appears in music, notably Toni Basil's 1981 hit "Mickey."

Today, Mickey remains a familiar name in many English-speaking countries, used in everyday life as well as in media and entertainment. Its friendly, informal connotation continues to support its ongoing use as a nickname and given name.