MallowbyNames

Marletta

mar-LET-uh · Of uncertain origin; possibly a feminine diminutive of Mario or Maria, or a variant of Marietta.

Peak popularity
1964
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Marletta since 1926

Babies named Marletta per year in U.S. Social Security records.

5101519602000Most births 1964Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1920s7
1930s7
1940s58
1950s65
1960s88
1970s44
1980s24
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Marletta is a rare name that never appeared in the U.S. top 1000, but it has a distinct history. First recorded in 1926, it reached its peak in 1964, the same year the name saw its highest usage. Its trajectory has been stable, indicating consistent but limited use over the decades. The name is likely a diminutive form of Maria or Mario, with the endearing Italian suffix -etta. While its origins are uncertain, Marletta carries a melodic, vintage charm that appeals to parents seeking an uncommon yet familiar-sounding name.

Marletta is most likely a diminutive form of Mario or Maria, common in Italian naming traditions. The suffix -etta denotes smallness or endearment. In English-speaking contexts, it may have emerged as a variant of Marietta, which itself derives from Mary. The name saw modest use in the United States beginning in the 1920s, with its peak popularity in 1964.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Mar, Lettie, Etta

Variants: Marietta, Marette, Marita

Sibling names for Marletta

Names that share Marletta's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

M is for Marletta, our favorite little girl.

M is for Marletta…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Marletta's letter becomes Marletta's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Marletta's book

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Questions parents ask

What does the name Marletta mean?
The meaning of Marletta is uncertain. It is likely a feminine diminutive of Mario or Maria, or a variant of Marietta.
How popular is the name Marletta today?
Marletta is not currently ranked in the U.S. top 1000 names. Its peak year was 1964.
Is Marletta a girl's name?
Yes, Marletta is almost exclusively used as a girl's name.