Marilyn Name Meaning & Details

Marilyn emerged as a distinctly American name in the early 20th century, combining the traditional Christian name Mary with the fashionable suffix -lyn. The name gained immense cultural prominence through Marilyn Monroe, who transformed it from a simple given name into a symbol of Hollywood glamour, femininity, and mid-century American culture. In Christian contexts, the name maintains connections to Mary, mother of Jesus, while incorporating modern elements that reflect evolving naming conventions. The name represents a bridge between traditional religious naming practices and contemporary American innovation, embodying both spiritual heritage and cultural modernity. Throughout the 20th century, Marilyn became associated with the ideal of American femininity—both the glamorous public persona and the complex private individual, creating a rich cultural narrative that continues to resonate today.