| Meaning | bitter, drop of the sea |
| Origin | Latin |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity | Moderate |
| Length | 6 |
| Syllables | 3 |
| Syllabification | Ma-ri-an |
Classic and understated, Marian possesses a vintage charm that's experiencing renewed appreciation among discerning parents today. The name bridges masculine and feminine energies, offering strength and softness in equal measure without compromising either quality. Marian suits someone principled and thoughtful, perhaps a natural leader who guides through example rather than force. It has literary and historical depth, evoking associations with folklore heroes and scholarly figures throughout centuries. The name works across generations, equally appropriate for a child and the accomplished adult she'll become. Marian's simplicity is deceiving—beneath the straightforward surface lies complexity and character that reveals itself over time. It's unencumbered by frills or excess decoration, appealing to parents who value substance over flash. The name has intellectual credibility without seeming pretentious or unapproachable. Marian ages beautifully, never feeling juvenile or inappropriate for any stage of life. It's timeless rather than trendy, offering stability in an ever-changing world.
| Mari |
| Mary |
| Mimi |
| Ria |
| Ri |
| Marian Anderson | Renowned American contralto and civil rights activist |
| Marian Keyes | Irish novelist and author of bestselling books |
| Marian Wright Edelman | American activist and founder of the Children's Defense Fund |
| Marian Rivera | Filipino actress and model |
| Marian Hossa | Slovakian ice hockey player and NHL star |
| Marian Cisovsky | Slovakian alpine skier and Olympian |
| Marian Seldes | American actress and Tony Award winner |
| Marian Diamond | American neuroscientist and educator |
| Marian Pahars | Latvian former professional footballer |
| Marian Zapico | Spanish artist and painter |
| Marian McPartland | English-American jazz pianist and composer |
| Marian Beke | Acclaimed mixologist and bartender |
| Marian Hailey-Moss | American actress and star of the TV show "Remington Steele" |
| Marian Mercer | American actress and singer |
| Marian Kotleba | Slovakian politician and chairman of the People's Party Our Slovakia |
| Marian Forrester | Character from the novel "A Lost Lady" by Willa Cather |
| Marian Ravenwood | Iconic character from the "Indiana Jones" film series |
| Marian Hawke | Protagonist of the video game "Dragon Age II" |
| Marian Alston | Character from the novel "All the King's Men" by Robert Penn Warren |