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Marlena
Fact sheet
- Name
- Marlena
- Gender
- Girl name
- Syllables
- 3
Marlena is a form of the name Marlene, which is used in both English and Polish. This first name is composed of the biblical names Maria and Magdalena (shortened to Lena) and refers to Mary Magdalene, a devoted follower of Jesus Christ.
What does the name Marlena mean?
The name Marlena is a derivative of Marlene and combines the elements of the names Maria and Magdalena. The exact meanings of these names are not clearly defined. In reference to Maria, Marlena can be interpreted as 'the beloved', 'the (gift from God)', 'the well-nourished', 'the sea myrrh', 'the sea drop', as well as 'the rebellious' or 'the untamed'. The meaning of Magdalena, and thus also of Marlena, is 'the one from Magdala', referring to the birthplace of Magdala by the Sea of Galilee. Additionally, the name Magdalena can be interpreted as 'the exalted', as the name Magdala is derived from the Hebrew word for 'tower'. The popularity of the name Marlene increased in the 1930s, largely due to the fame of the German-American actress Marlene Dietrich, whose birth name was Marie Magdalene Dietrich. Today, the variant Marlena is particularly found in Poland and the English-speaking world, while in Germany it is considered a popular alternative to Marlene. Occasionally, the spelling Marlen is also used, and another common variant is Marleen.
Where does the name Marlena come from?
Marlena is a feminine first name of ancient Hebrew origin with meanings such as 'the sea myrrh' or 'the exalted'.
How do you pronounce Marlena?
The pronunciation of Marlena is three syllables and flowing. In German, the name is usually pronounced as 'Mar-le-na' [maʁˈleːna]. It begins with a warm A sound that conveys openness. The stressed syllable '-le-' with a long E gives the name an elegant touch, while the open 'a' at the end provides a harmonious conclusion. Overall, Marlena sounds classic and feminine, with a soft and melodious tone that has a nostalgic quality.
When is the name day of Marlena?
The name day of Marlena is celebrated on July 22 to commemorate the disciple Mary Magdalene.
Popularity
In Germany, the first name Marlena enjoys great popularity. Currently, it ranks 427th on the list of the most common female first names. Its highest placement was in 2015, when it ranked 268th. Over the last ten years, the name has been given approximately 1,900 times, placing it 321st in the ten-year statistics. Between 2010 and 2024, Marlena ranks 322nd.
Nicknames & pet names
Lena / Lenchen / Leni / Male / Mali / Malle / Mallitschka / Malonschki / Mari / Marilyn / Marla / Marle / Marlenchen / Marleni / Marlenita / Marlenka / Marley / Marli / Marlin / Marlono / Marls / Marlunie / Marly / Marlöna / Mena / Morl
Similar first names
Famous people
- Marlena Kowalik (football player from Germany)
- Marlena Martinelli (Austrian singer)
- Marlena Schön (German basketball player)
- Marlena Shaw (American jazz singer)
- Marlena Wesh (American sprinter)
Frequently asked questions about the name Marlena
What does the name Marlena mean?
Marlena is of ancient Hebrew origin and is associated with meanings such as 'the sea myrrh' or 'the exalted'. The derivation from Maria and Magdalena brings various interpretations, including 'the beloved' and 'the one from Magdala'.
Is Marlena a common girl's name?
Yes, Marlena is a popular girl's name, especially prevalent in Poland and the English-speaking world. In Germany, it is often used as an alternative to Marlene.
What nicknames are there for Marlena?
There are a variety of nicknames for Marlena, such as Lena, Leni, Male, Mali, Marla, and many more. These allow for individual address and offer parents creative options.
How is the name Marlena pronounced?
The name Marlena is generally pronounced as 'Mar-le-na'. The emphasis is on the first syllable, making it sound melodious and harmonious.