Likely a modern blend meaning star of the sea and heavenly
Marlani is a modern American creation, most likely formed by blending the name Marla (a derivative of Mary, meaning 'star of the sea') with the popular Hawaiian suffix -lani (meaning 'heaven' or 'sky'). It follows the trend of melodic, multi-syllabic names that feel both familiar and unique.
Less common today
Marlani isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #5,952 in 2024.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
