What does Melena mean and where does it come from?
Melena is a name used primarily in Spanish-speaking countries, derived from the word 'melenas' which can refer to dark or long hair. It is relatively modern and versatile, often chosen for its melodic sound. The name can symbolize beauty and elegance, reflecting the characteristics associated with h
Cultural significance
Melena has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spanish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of dark-haired.
Peak popularity
Reached #2552 in 1975 — currently #10870 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spanish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Melena?
Melena works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Melena Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Melena Rose
Floral · soft ending
Melena Mae
Sweet · timeless
Melena Claire
French influence · crisp
Melena Jane
Literary · strong
Melena Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Melena right now?
Falling — down 715 spots — currently #10870 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #10870 | 9 | ▼ down 715 · -10% births |
| 2022 | #10155 | 10 | ▼ down 1838 · -23% births |
| 2021 | #8317 | 13 | ▲ up 2855 · +63% births |
| 2020 | #11172 | 8 | ▼ down 2634 · -38% births |
| 2015 | #8538 | 13 | ▲ up 2052 · +30% births |
| 2010 | #10590 | 10 | ▼ down 6627 · -72% births |
| 2005 | #3963 | 36 | ▼ down 344 |
| 2000 | #3619 | 36 | ▼ down 1 · +20% births |
| 1995 | #3618 | 30 | ▲ up 2330 · +100% births |
| 1990 | #5948 | 15 | ▼ down 119 · +25% births |
| 1985 | #5829 | 12 | ▼ down 1755 · -37% births |
| 1980 | #4074 | 19 | ▼ down 1522 · -39% births |
| 1975 | #2552 | 31 | ▲ up 991 · +72% births |
| 1970 | #3543 | 18 | ▲ up 1653 · +125% births |
| 1965 | #5196 | 8 | — |
The story of Melena
Melena entered American naming records in 1957 and has been in use for over 67 years. With 1,198 total births recorded, Melena remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5196 in 1965, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #10870 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Melena in 1975:
Melena by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 6 | |
| 1960s | 82 | |
| 1970s | 223 | |
| 1980s | 124 | |
| 1990s | 235 | |
| 2000s ★ | 374 | |
| 2010s | 146 | |
| 2020s | 8 | |
💎With 1,198 total births, Melena is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Melena?
Famous people named Melena
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Melena (Spanish saint)
Melena helped establish this name across the Spanish-speaking Catholic world.
M(
Melena (Spanish conquistador or explorer)
Melena bore this name during the Age of Exploration, spreading it across the Americas.
M(
Melena (Spanish saint)
Melena helped establish this name across the Spanish-speaking Catholic world.
M(
Melena (Flamenco artist)
Melena carried this name in the vibrant tradition of Spanish music and dance.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Melena?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Melena also consider these
Common questions about the name Melena
What does the name Melena mean?
Melena means "dark-haired" — a name rooted in Spanish 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 Melena?
Melena 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 Melena?
Melena originates from Spanish tradition. Spanish 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 Melena?
Melena is a three-syllable name pronounced M EH1 L EH1 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 Melena?
Melena pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Spanish heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.