What does Marlina mean and where does it come from?
Marlina is a name of Indonesian origin derived from 'Marl' which could relate to 'sea' in a more poetic sense. The name has gained popularity due to its melodic sound and connection to nature. Marlin is also a type of fish, which might add to the nautical connotation. In Indonesia, Marlina can carry
Cultural significance
Marlina has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Indonesia-speaking communities, where it reflects values of of the sea.
Peak popularity
Reached #2258 in 1978 — currently #11555 in the US.
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Related Reading
Indonesia-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Marlina?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Marlina?
Marlina works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Marlina Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Marlina Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Marlina Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Marlina Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Marlina Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Marlina Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Marlina right now?
Rising fast — up 2976 spots — currently #11555 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #11555 | 8 | ▲ up 2976 · +33% births |
| 2023 | #14531 | 6 | ▼ down 3721 · -33% births |
| 2021 | #10810 | 9 | ▲ up 342 · +13% births |
| 2020 | #11152 | 8 | ▼ down 153 · -11% births |
| 2015 | #10999 | 9 | ▼ down 1683 · -25% births |
| 2010 | #9316 | 12 | ▼ down 3014 · -37% births |
| 2005 | #6302 | 19 | ▲ up 2355 · +73% births |
| 2000 | #8657 | 11 | ▼ down 4520 · -56% births |
| 1995 | #4137 | 25 | ▲ up 291 · +14% births |
| 1990 | #4428 | 22 | ▼ down 1072 · -15% births |
| 1985 | #3356 | 26 | ▼ down 788 · -30% births |
| 1980 | #2568 | 37 | ▲ up 2415 · +208% births |
| 1975 | #4983 | 12 | ▼ down 828 · -14% births |
| 1970 | #4155 | 14 | ▼ down 658 |
| 1965 | #3497 | 14 | — |
The story of Marlina
Marlina entered American naming records in 1947 and has been in use for over 77 years. With 1,150 total births recorded, Marlina remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #4324 in 1955, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #14531 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Marlina in 1978:
Marlina by decade
Marlina peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 15 | |
| 1950s | 57 | |
| 1960s | 112 | |
| 1970s | 208 | |
| 1980s ★ | 239 | |
| 1990s | 232 | |
| 2000s | 164 | |
| 2010s | 115 | |
| 2020s | 16 | |
💎With 1,150 total births, Marlina is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Marlina?
What names sound and feel like Marlina?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Marlina also consider these
Common questions about the name Marlina
What does the name Marlina mean?
Marlina means "of the sea" — a name rooted in Indonesia 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 Marlina?
Marlina 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 Marlina?
Marlina originates from Indonesia tradition. Indonesia 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 Marlina?
Marlina is a three-syllable name pronounced MAH-RLEE-nuh. 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 Marlina?
Marlina pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Indonesia heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.