Marian

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Marian

Gender Girl
Origin English
Letters 6
Syllables 2
Pronunciation meh-ree-uhn

Marian, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a female name of English origin.

Meaning of Marian

From mary and ann

The name Marian is derived from the Latin word for "star of the sea," which is a reference to the Virgin Mary. In some cases, it can also be a variant of the name Marion, which is derived from the French word for ‘little rebel’.

Save
Rate:
Be the first to rate!
Meaning From mary and ann
Origin English
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #735 in 2000 Rising Fast
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Vintage (1920s)

Background & History of The Name Marian

The name 'Marian' is a variant of the name 'Mary' and is derived from the Hebrew name 'Miriam', which means "sea of bitterness" or "rebelliousness". It is a unisex name that has been used for both males and females throughout history. In some cultures, 'Marian' is primarily used as a male name, while in others it is predominantly used for females. The popularity of the name 'Marian' has fluctuated over time, with different variations of the name emerging in various regions.

In Christianity, 'Marian' is often associated with devotion to the Virgin Mary, who holds a significant role in religious teachings. The name has been used to honor and show reverence for the Virgin Mary by naming individuals, particularly females, after her. As a result, 'Marian' has become a relatively common name among Christian communities.

Throughout history, there have been notable individuals named 'Marian' who have made significant contributions to various fields. For instance, Marian Anderson was a renowned African-American contralto singer who broke racial barriers in the classical music world. Her talent and perseverance elevated her to international fame. Similarly, Marian Wright Edelman is an American activist, advocate for children's rights, and founder of the Children's Defense Fund. Edelman's work has been instrumental in improving the lives of countless children across the United States.

The name 'Marian' is still widely used today, with individuals from diverse backgrounds choosing it for their children. Its versatility and rich historical associations make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a classic yet distinctive name. Whether considered in terms of its etymology, religious significance, or the accomplishments of people who have borne the name, 'Marian' continues to be a meaningful and enduring choice for many individuals worldwide.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Marian over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials Marian would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Marian.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names