“A combination of Marie and Lee, related to 'bitter' and 'meadow' respectively.”
American origin · Girl name
♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls
#7893US 2023
14Births / yr
↑Rising
7.4kAll-time births
📅 Since 191200.01% of births at peak
How to pronounce Marilee
MAH·RIL·EE
/ˈmɑ.ˈrɪl.ˈiː/ · stress on MAH · 3 syllables
“A combination of Marie and Lee, related to 'bitter' and 'meadow' respectively.”
American origin · Girl name
What does Marilee mean and where does it come from?
Marilee is a modern American name created by blending the names Marie and Lee. Marie is of French origin and means 'bitter,' while Lee is of English origin meaning 'meadow' or 'clearing.' Although not as common as some names, it carries a unique charm and has been used since the mid-20th century. It
Cultural significance
Marilee has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a combination of marie and lee, related to 'bitter' and 'meadow' respectively..
Rising fast — up 3017 spots — currently #7893 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2023#7893 · Top 5.8%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#7893
14
▲ up 3017 · +56% births
2022
#10910
9
▼ down 2121 · -25% births
2021
#8789
12
▲ up 6318 · +140% births
2020
#15107
5
▼ down 8860 · -75% births
2015
#6247
20
▲ up 5053 · +122% births
2010
#11300
9
▼ down 4127 · -44% births
2005
#7173
16
▲ up 25 · +14% births
2000
#7198
14
▼ down 901
1995
#6297
14
▼ down 2561 · -50% births
1990
#3736
28
▼ down 1367 · -33% births
1985
#2369
42
▲ up 295 · +20% births
1980
#2664
35
▼ down 632 · -19% births
1975
#2032
43
▼ down 654 · -43% births
1970
#1378
76
▼ down 264 · -16% births
1965
#1114
90
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Marilee
1945Rank #587
214
#4202
↘Falling
1915 - 202325 years
The story of Marilee
Marilee entered American naming records in 1912 and has been in use for over 112 years. With 7,371 total births recorded, Marilee remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2515 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #7893 in 2023.
Marilee means "A combination of Marie and Lee, related to 'bitter' and 'meadow' respectively." — a name rooted in American 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 Marilee?
Marilee 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 Marilee?
Marilee originates from American tradition. American 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 Marilee?
Marilee is a three-syllable name pronounced M AA1 R IH1 L IY1. 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 Marilee?
Marilee pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar American 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 Marilee
For a sister
Marilee & Harrison♡
Marilee & Dean♡
Marilee & Grant♡
Marilee & King♡
For a brother
Marilee & Harrison♡
Marilee & Dean♡
Marilee & Grant♡
Marilee & King♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#7893
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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