All about the name

Maryln

Female

« The English-origin name Marilyn is a combination of Mary ('sea of bitterness' or 'beloved') and Lynn ('from the lake'), meaning 'beautiful like the sea.' »

#11221 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

The name Marilyn is of English origin and has been popular among women for many decades. It was originally a combination of the names Mary and Lynn, with Mary being a traditional Christian name meaning "sea of bitterness" or "beloved," and Lynn typically meaning "from the lake." When combined, Marilyn means "beautiful like the sea." The name Marilyn gained significant popularity in the mid-20th century due to its association with iconic American actress and singer Marilyn Monroe. Born Norma Jeane Mortenson, she legally changed her name to Marilyn Monroe in 1956. Her success and fame during this era contributed to an increase in parents choosing the name Marilyn for their daughters. Despite its peak popularity around the mid-20th century, the name Marilyn has maintained a steady presence in naming trends throughout history. It was most popular in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s but continues to be used today, albeit less frequently than in previous decades. In terms of its usage around the world, Marilyn is predominantly an English-speaking name. However, it can also be found among communities with strong ties to American culture or Hollywood, such as those living in Australia, Canada, and some European countries like France and Germany. While it may not have a specific cultural significance outside of North America, Marilyn remains a recognizable and historic female name worldwide. In conclusion, the name Marilyn is of English origin and combines the names Mary and Lynn to create a meaning that translates to "beautiful like the sea." Its popularity can be largely attributed to the fame and success of actress Marilyn Monroe during the mid-20th century. Although its usage has declined since then, Marilyn remains an enduring and recognizable name for women.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Maryln since 1880

Total births
524
Total since 1880
Peak year
1937
33 births
in 1969
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years