Rising since 1985, #2,298 for girls today.
Popularity of Marli since 1954
Babies named Marli per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 6 |
| 1960s | 31 |
| 1970s | 80 |
| 1980s | 124 |
| 1990s | 289 |
| 2000s | 775 |
| 2010s | 946 |
| 2020s | 590 |
Meaning & origin
Marli is a modern feminine name that first appeared on the U.S. popularity charts in 1954 but remained rare until the 1980s. Its trajectory has been rising since 1985, and it reached a peak rank in 2008. In 2025, the name ranked 2,298th, with an estimated 1 in 20,345 newborn girls receiving the name. It is most common in Alabama, Georgia, and Pennsylvania, reflecting a regional preference in the South and Mid-Atlantic. As a modern coinage, Marli draws from the popularity of names like Marley and Marlee, offering a streamlined spelling. The name's lack of a deep historical etymology does not diminish its appeal for parents seeking a fresh, melodic choice.
Marli is a modern coinage that likely emerged as a variant of the surname and given name Marley, which derives from Old English elements meaning 'pleasant wood' or 'boundary meadow.' The name may also have been influenced by other 'Mar-' names like Marlin or Marlene. It has been in sporadic use since the mid-20th century, with a notable rise in popularity since the 1980s.
Where Marli is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mar, Lee
Sibling names for Marli
Names that share Marli's style, for a brother or sister.
