Meaning: "Little Maria"
Background: The name Marlene is a feminine name that is derived from the Germanic name "Mariam", which is a combination of the names Maria and Magdalene. Maria is a Latin form of the Hebrew name Miriam, which means "sea of bitterness" or "wished-for child". Magdalene is derived from the Aramaic word 'Migdol', which means "tower".
Historical Impact:
- In the 19th century, Marlene was used as a diminutive for Maria and Magdalena, but it gradually became a standalone name.
- Its popularity grew significantly during the early 20th century, particularly due to the rise of German actress Marlene Dietrich, who became a symbol of glamour and sophistication in the 1930s.
- The name Marlene continued to be popular in various countries throughout the 20th century, and it remains in use today, although its usage has declined somewhat in recent years.