Holding steady.
Popularity of Marsalis since 1986
Babies named Marsalis per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1989, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Marsalis's real moment was 1996.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 58 |
| 1990s | 155 |
| 2000s | 42 |
| 2010s | 7 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Marsalis is a modern surname-turned-given name, inextricably linked to the legendary New Orleans jazz family. The name first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1986, but its peak year came in 1996, reflecting the ongoing cultural influence of Wynton and Branford Marsalis during the 1990s. Since then, usage has remained stable but very low, with the name never appearing in the top 1000. As a distinctive choice, Marsalis offers a direct tribute to musical heritage without being overly common, appealing to parents seeking a name with artistic resonance and a strong, two-syllable sound.
Marsalis originated as a surname, famously borne by the New Orleans-based musical family including Ellis, Wynton, and Branford Marsalis. It likely has English or French roots, but the precise derivation is uncertain. As a given name, it emerged in the late 20th century, influenced by the prominence of the jazz dynasty.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mars, Sali
Sibling names for Marsalis
Names that share Marsalis's style, for a brother or sister.
