Melanie

What does the baby name Melanie mean? Learn about what Melanie means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Melanie - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Melanie: M-E-L-A-N-I-E, is a 7-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Melanie: MEL-ə-nee; MEL ah nee
Meaning of Melanie: Dark skinned, black, woman of gloom.
Origin of Melanie: The name 'Melanie' finds its origins in ancient Greece. Derived from the Greek word 'melas', meaning 'black' or 'dark', 'Melanie' originally referred to someone with dark or black hair. Its earliest known use can be traced back to the 4th century B.C. in Greek mythology. 'Melanie' was the name of a nymph who cared for the infant god Zeus, hiding him from his father Cronus. This mythological connection adds an air of mystique to the name and lends it a timeless quality.; American Names; French Names; Greek Names; Roman Names; Saints Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Melanie: Malana; Malani; Malania; Malanie; Mel; Melana; Melani; Melantha; Melena; Mellie; Melona; Meloni; Melonia; Melonie
Popularity of Melanie: Over the centuries, the popularity of the name 'Melanie' has experienced various trends and notable spikes. In the English-speaking world, the name gained prominence in the 19th century and reached its peak during the mid-20th century. During this time, it was a popular choice for parents seeking a feminine and elegant name for their daughters.; Melanie currently has 2987 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked girl's names. The name Elizabeth is slightly more popular than Melanie.

Etymology of Melanie

The linguistic roots of the name 'Melanie' can be traced back to its Greek origin. As mentioned earlier, 'melas' means 'black' or 'dark'. This association with darkness can be interpreted metaphorically to represent depth, mystery, and strength. The name 'Melanie' embodies these qualities, making it a compelling choice for parents who wish to bestow these characteristics upon their child.

Cultural Significance of Melanie

While the name 'Melanie' does not have specific cultural associations, it has been embraced by various cultures around the world. Its popularity extends beyond linguistic and cultural boundaries, making it a universally recognized and appreciated name. This versatility allows individuals named 'Melanie' to feel connected to a global community while still maintaining their unique identity.