Marlene

girlGermanChristian

Marlene is a Christian girl name of German, from Hebrew origin, meaning “Contraction of Maria Magdalena”.

MeaningContraction of Maria Magdalena
GenderGirl
OriginGerman, from Hebrew
Pronunciationmar-LEEN
TraditionChristian, Modern & Classic
Used inGermany, United States, Netherlands, Mexico

Meaning and origin of Marlene

Marlene is a German contraction of Maria Magdalena, joining Mary and Magdalene in one short name. The actress Marlene Dietrich, born Marie Magdalene Dietrich, made it internationally famous in the 1930s, and the soldiers' song 'Lili Marleen' added to its popularity. The 'star of the sea' meaning sometimes given is a gloss on Mary rather than on Marlene itself.

Is Marlene a Christian name?

Marlene combines the names of the Virgin Mary and Mary Magdalene, so it has Christian roots, though it is often chosen for its glamour.

How popular is Marlene?

Popular in the mid twentieth century and still used in Germany and Latin America.

Gifts with the name Marlene

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Spellings and variants of Marlene

MarlenaMarleenMarlen

Names similar to Marlene

MarlenaArleneDarleneHelene

More Christian girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Marlene mean?

Marlene means 'Contraction of Maria Magdalena'. It is of German, from Hebrew origin.

Is Marlene a Christian name?

Marlene combines the names of the Virgin Mary and Mary Magdalene, so it has Christian roots, though it is often chosen for its glamour.

How do you pronounce Marlene?

Marlene is pronounced mar-LEEN.

Is Marlene a boy or girl name?

Marlene is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.