Marlene

What does the baby name Marlene mean? Learn about what Marlene means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Marlene - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Marlene
M-A-R-L-E-N-E, is a 7-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Marlene
MAHR-leen
Meaning of Marlene
From the high tower, combination of mary and magdalene, rebellious woman from magdala, derivative: form of marlene.
Origin of Marlene
The name 'Marlene' finds its roots in Germany. It is believed to be a combination of two names, 'Maria' and 'Magdalene'. 'Maria', derived from the Hebrew name 'Miriam', means 'wished-for child' or 'rebellious'. On the other hand, 'Magdalene' is derived from the Hebrew name 'Migdal', meaning 'tower'. The fusion of these two names gives birth to the beautiful name 'Marlene', which carries a sense of strength and divine grace.
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Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Marlene
Dalanna
Lena
Mada
Maddy
Madel
Madeline
Magda
Magdalene
Mala
Marlaine
Marlena
Maud
Maude
Popularity of Marlene
Over the years, the popularity of the name 'Marlene' has seen its fair share of fluctuations. In the early 20th century, it experienced a surge in popularity, particularly in the United States and Germany. This can be attributed to the influence of the renowned German actress 'Marlene' Dietrich, who rose to international fame during the 1930s. Her captivating performances and unique beauty left an indelible mark on popular culture, leading to a spike in the usage of the name.
Marlene currently has 188 likes, and is in the top 5% of liked girl's names. The name Octavia is slightly more popular than Marlene.

Etymology of Marlene

The linguistic roots of the name 'Marlene' can be traced back to its German origin. In German, 'Marlene' is pronounced as 'mar-LAY-nuh'. The name is a combination of 'Maria', meaning 'bitter' or 'rebellious', and 'Magdalene', meaning 'tower'. This etymology reflects the complexity and strength inherent in the name, as it intertwines the concepts of resilience and elevation.

Cultural Significance of Marlene

The name 'Marlene' holds cultural significance in various contexts. In Germany, it is often associated with 'Marlene' Dietrich, an iconic figure in the entertainment industry. Dietrich 's influence extended beyond her acting prowess; she was also known for her political activism and defiance of societal norms. The name 'Marlene' thus became synonymous with independence, strength, and a willingness to challenge the status quo.