Declining since 2013, #5,554 for girls today.
Popularity of Marlyn since 1913
Babies named Marlyn per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1910s | 56 | 84 |
| 1920s | 516 | 462 |
| 1930s | 1,492 | 819 |
| 1940s | 1,064 | 367 |
| 1950s | 682 | 235 |
| 1960s | 448 | 101 |
| 1970s | 290 | 73 |
| 1980s | 408 | 39 |
| 1990s | 619 | 42 |
| 2000s | 632 | 57 |
| 2010s | 462 | 22 |
| 2020s | 137 | 5 |
Meaning & origin
Marlyn is a modern name that emerged in the early 20th century, first recorded in 1915. It likely blends the popular names Mary and Lynn, following a naming trend of combining familiar elements. The name reached its peak popularity in 1936, during which it saw significant use. However, its usage has been declining, with a notable downward trajectory since 2013. In 2025, it ranked 5,554, with only about 1 in 73,058 births bearing the name. While not among top state rankings today, Marlyn retains a vintage charm reminiscent of its mid-20th century heyday.
Marlyn is believed to be a modern coinage blending the popular names Mary and Lynn. It emerged in the early 20th century, first recorded in 1915, and saw its peak usage in the 1930s. The name follows a pattern of combining familiar elements to create a feminine-sounding name.
Where Marlyn is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mar, Lyn
Sibling names for Marlyn
Names that share Marlyn's style, for a brother or sister.
