“of the sea” — Associated with the song 'Malena' written by the famous tango musi
Spain origin · Girl name
♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls
#2544US 2023
70Births / yr
↓Falling
3.7kAll-time births
📅 Since 188600
How to pronounce Malena
MAL·in·uh
/ˈmæl.ɪn.ə/ · stress on MAL · 3 syllables
“of the sea”
Associated with the song 'Malena' written by the famous tango musi · Spain origin
What does Malena mean and where does it come from?
Malena is often derived from the name 'María Elena', with 'María' meaning 'of the sea' and 'Elena' meaning 'light' or 'bright'. The name has various usages in Spanish-speaking cultures and is increasingly popular in Argentina. It is associated with the song 'Malena' written by the famous tango music
Cultural significance
Malena has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of spanish.
Peak popularity
Reached #1097 in 1886 — currently #2544 in the US.
Falling — down 166 spots — currently #2544 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1930–2023#2544 · Top 1.9%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#2544
70
▼ down 166 · -10% births
2022
#2378
78
▲ up 28 · +4% births
2021
#2406
75
▲ up 394 · +29% births
2020
#2800
58
▼ down 817 · -42% births
2015
#1983
100
▼ down 230 · -15% births
2010
#1753
118
▼ down 61 · +1% births
2005
#1692
117
▲ up 152 · +26% births
2000
#1844
93
▲ up 850 · +107% births
1995
#2694
45
▲ up 1699 · +105% births
1990
#4393
22
▼ down 1445 · -29% births
1985
#2948
31
▼ down 293 · -11% births
1980
#2655
35
▼ down 591 · -17% births
1975
#2064
42
▼ down 343 · -21% births
1970
#1721
53
▲ up 3157 · +563% births
1965
#4878
8
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Malena
2005Rank #1692
118
#2999
↗Rising
1930 - 202318 years
The story of Malena
Malena has been a beloved American name for over 138 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1886. With 3,677 total births recorded, Malena remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4105 in 1930 to #2544 in 2023.
Malena means "Spanish" — a name rooted in Spain tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Malena?
Malena is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Malena?
Malena originates from Spain tradition. Spain names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Malena?
Malena is a three-syllable name pronounced M AE1 L IH0 N AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Malena?
Malena pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Spain heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Malena
For a sister
Malena & Lola♡
Malena & Alma♡
Malena & Camila♡
Malena & Carita♡
For a brother
Malena & Lola♡
Malena & Alma♡
Malena & Santiago♡
Malena & Jose♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#2544
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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