Marilyn Girl

English; Latin

Meaning

English: Star of the sea; Latin: Bitter

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Marilyn is believed to be a modern blend of the names Mary and Lynn. The name Mary has its roots in the Hebrew name Miriam, which is thought to mean "sea of bitterness" or "rebelliousness." This name was adopted into Greek as Maria and then into Latin as Maria, becoming widely used in Christian contexts due to its association with the Virgin Mary. The name Lynn, on the other hand, has Old English origins, derived from the word "lind," meaning "lime tree" or "lake," and was often used as a suffix in place names and personal names throughout the Middle Ages.

The earliest recorded use of Marilyn as a given name dates back to the early 20th century, with its rise in popularity attributed to the influence of American actress Marilyn Monroe, who became a cultural icon in the 1950s. However, the name itself can be traced back to earlier uses in literature and as a feminine form of male names such as Marlin. The combination of Mary and Lynn reflects a broader trend in the 20th century of creating new names by blending existing ones, which was particularly popular in English-speaking countries.

Culturally, Marilyn carries connotations of beauty and glamour, largely due to the legacy of Marilyn Monroe, who has become synonymous with the ideals of femininity and stardom in American culture. The name has also been associated with strength and resilience, reflecting the complexities of the figure it is most famously linked to. While diminutive forms like Mari or Lyn may exist, Marilyn stands out as a unique name that encapsulates a blend of historical significance and modern cultural resonance.

Trend Summary

Marilyn experienced peak popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1930s to 1960s.

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