“Derived from the name Marlene, meaning 'little bird' or 'from the sea'.”
American origin · popularized by actor Marlon Brando
♂ 99% boys♀ 1% girls
#942US 2023
240Births / yr
↑Rising
30.2kAll-time births
📅 Since 192300
How to pronounce Marlon
MAH·rlun
/ˈmɑ.rlən/ · stress on MAH · 2 syllables
“Derived from the name Marlene, meaning 'little bird' or 'from the sea'.”
American origin · Unisex name
What does Marlon mean and where does it come from?
Marlon is more commonly known as a male name, popularized by actor Marlon Brando. However, as a female name, it reflects a more modern, gender-fluid approach to naming. The name is believed to derive from the female names Marlene and Marilyn, which combine elements representing beauty and nature. It
Cultural significance
Marlon has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of derived from the name marlene, meaning 'little bird' or 'from the sea'..
Rising fast — up 51 spots — currently #942 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1930–2023#942 · Top 0.70%
1930
1945
1955
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#942
240
▲ up 51 · +7% births
2022
#993
225
▲ up 36 · +6% births
2021
#1029
213
▲ up 12265 · +3450% births
2000
#13294
6
▼ down 1374
1995
#11920
6
▼ down 2563 · -25% births
1990
#9357
8
▼ down 2323 · -11% births
1985
#7034
9
▲ up 2218 · +50% births
1980
#9252
6
▼ down 4013 · -45% births
1975
#5239
11
▲ up 274 · +22% births
1970
#5513
9
▲ up 493 · +50% births
1965
#6006
6
▲ up 601 · +20% births
1960
#6607
5
▼ down 2081 · -37% births
1955
#4526
8
▼ down 676 · +14% births
1945
#3850
7
▲ up 1035 · +40% births
1930
#4885
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Marlon
2023Rank #942
240
#6030
↘Falling
1930 - 202315 years
The story of Marlon
Marlon entered American naming records in 1923 and has been in use for over 101 years. A total of 30,200 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4885 in 1930 to #942 in 2023. Marlon is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Marlon means "Derived from the name Marlene, meaning 'little bird' or 'from the sea'." — 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 Marlon?
Marlon is currently ranked #942 as a baby 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 Marlon?
Marlon 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 Marlon?
Marlon is a two-syllable name pronounced M AA1 R L AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Marlon a common or rare name?
Marlon is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Marlon
For a sister
Marlon & Weston♡
Marlon & Summer♡
Marlon & Ashton♡
Marlon & Jesse♡
For a brother
Marlon & Wesley♡
Marlon & Weston♡
Marlon & Summer♡
Marlon & Jason♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#942
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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