Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Marian

      Origin 
      English

      Meaning 
      Bitter, or From the Sea

      Variations 
      Mariana, Mariano, Marianna

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Marian, originating from English, holds a captivating history that stretches back through the ages. Derived from multiple sources, it embodies the meanings of both bitter and from the sea, imparting a sense of depth and mystique. The name's association with bitterness is believed to have emerged from the Germanic elements mre, meaning renowned, and wynn, signifying joy. Over time, these linguistic components fused together to form the concept of bitterness. Alternatively, the sea connection originates from the Latin name Marianus, meaning of Marius or of the sea. It is likely that these diverse origins contributed to the name's popularity across different cultures.

      Throughout history, the name Marian has left its indelible mark in various cultures and regions. It has been adopted by notable figures, both male and female, across the realms of literature, religion, and politics. From the literary world, Marian is famously associated with the character of Marian Halcombe in Wilkie Collins' masterpiece The Woman in White. Furthermore, the name Marian has maintained a steadfast presence in religious contexts, with revered figures like Saint Marianus and Saint Marian of Agen hailing from different periods. In modern times, the name continues to be embraced by individuals of diverse backgrounds, with its allure lying in its heritage, elegance, and timeless charm.

      To sum up, the name Marian, with its English roots and dual meanings of bitterness and connection to the sea, has forged a captivating path throughout history. Its connections to renowned literary figures and invigorating historical figures demonstrate its enduring allure. Today, the name remains a popular choice, cherished for its timeless appeal and cultural significance.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Marian.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Marian.

      John

      is the most common spouse name for Marian.

      John

      is the most common child name for Marian.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1917 is when there were the most people born with the first name Marian.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.