Marlow

“driftwood, a meadow by a lake” — Associated with nature and tranquilit

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 64% boys♀ 36% girls

#1370US 2023

165Births / yr

↑Rising

3kAll-time births

📅 Since 196300.01% of births at peak

What does Marlow mean and where does it come from?

Marlow, although originally a surname derived from the Old English elements 'mere' (meaning lake) and 'lah' (meaning 'a piece of land') is increasingly used as a feminine given name. It gained popularity in the United States in the late 20th century and is often associated with nature and tranquilit

Cultural significance

Marlow has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of driftwood, a meadow by a lake.

Peak popularity

Reached #1693 in 2019 — currently #1370 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Marlow?

Marlow works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Marlow Grace

How popular is Marlow right now?

Rising fast — up 302 spots — currently #1370 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1970–2023#1370 · Top 1.0%

1970

1975

1980

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1370	165	▲ up 302 · +31% births
2022	#1672	126	▼ down 226 · -15% births
2021	#1446	149	▲ up 573 · +64% births
2020	#2019	91	▲ up 188 · +7% births
2015	#2207	85	▲ up 2298 · +166% births
2010	#4505	32	▲ up 8580 · +357% births
2005	#13085	7	▼ down 4799
1980	#8286	7	▼ down 3874 · -50% births
1975	#4412	14	▲ up 406 · +27% births
1970	#4818	11	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Marlow

Best Year2023Rank #1370

Peak Count165

Average Rank#4382

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1970 - 202310 years

The story of Marlow

Marlow is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1963. With 3,002 total births recorded, Marlow remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4818 in 1970 to #1370 in 2023. Marlow is used for both genders: 36% female and 64% male.

Names that peaked alongside Marlow in 2019:

Olivia Emma Ava Sophia Isabella

Marlow by decade

Marlow peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	86
1920s	132
1930s	220
1940s	138
1950s	158
1960s	220
1970s	434
1980s	192
1990s	107
2000s	233
2010s ★	966
2020s	116

💎With 3,002 total births, Marlow is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Marlow?

Common

MarMaArlow

What names sound and feel like Marlow?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Marlow also consider these

Marlon

American · Derived from the

Harlow

American · army hill

Marlo

American · Marlo is a

Arlow

American · A blend of

Maryon

American · bitter

Farlow

Arabic · A Arabic name

Darlow

United Kingdom · From the valley

Carlow

Latin · A Latin name

Common questions about the name Marlow

What does the name Marlow mean?

Marlow means "driftwood, a meadow by a lake" — 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 Marlow?

Marlow is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Marlow have increased significantly in recent years.

What is the cultural origin of Marlow?

Marlow 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.

Is Marlow trending right now?

Marlow is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.

Is Marlow a common or rare name?

Marlow is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.