Marley
Marley is a girl name of English origin meaning “Pleasant seaside meadow”, pronounced MAR-lee. It ranked #322 in the United States in 2025, given to 950 babies, and peaked at #145 in 2008. Common nicknames: Mar, Lee.
How popular is Marley in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Marley mean, and where does it come from?
Marley is an English surname derived from Old English elements meaning "pleasant" or "boundary" combined with "leah," meaning "meadow" or "clearing," often interpreted as "pleasant meadow near the sea." The name carries strong musical associations through reggae legend Bob Marley, whose global influence gave the surname widespread cultural recognition. It also appears in Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" as the ghost of Jacob Marley. As a unisex given name, Marley has grown especially popular for girls in the 21st century, valued for its breezy, musical sound and laid-back charm.
How is Marley used around the world?
Marley is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 6+ international variants.
TypeUnisex name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Marley?
Famous People Named Marley
- Bob Marley — Jamaican reggae musician and cultural icon
- Marley Dias — American activist and author
- Marley Shelton — American actress
Similar Names to Marley
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Sibling Name Ideas for Marley
Looking for names that pair well with Marley? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Marley mean?
Marley is a girl name of English origin meaning "Pleasant seaside meadow." Marley is an English surname derived from Old English elements meaning "pleasant" or "boundary" combined with "leah," meaning "meadow" or "clearing," often interpreted as "pleasant meadow near the sea." The name carries strong musical associations through reggae legend Bob Marley, whose global influence gave the surname widespread cultural recognition.
How do you pronounce Marley?
Marley is pronounced MAR-lee. Common variations include Marlee, Marleigh, Marli.
Is Marley a girl name?
Yes, Marley is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Mar, Lee.