Origin & Meaning of the Marley Surname
What does the last name Marley mean?
The surname Marley carries the meaning "From a meadow or clearing." It is derived from the Old English language and has been passed down through generations, reflecting the occupations, locations, or characteristics of early bearers of the name. With 6,220 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Marley ranks as the #5,591 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Marley come from?
The Marley surname has its roots in English heritage. Names of English origin often reflect the cultural, linguistic, and historical traditions of the communities where they first appeared. Over centuries, migration and cultural exchange have spread the Marley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Marley trace back to Old English. Understanding the original language helps decode the meaning and evolution of the name from its earliest recorded forms to the modern spelling used today.
Quick Facts
| Surname | Marley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #5,591 |
| US Count (2010) | 6,220 |
| Per 100K People | 2.11 |
| First Letter | M |
Ethnic Distribution of Marley
According to the US Census, the Marley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 6,220 Americans with the Marley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 87.27% |
| Black | 6.66% |
| Hispanic | 2.72% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.51% |
| Native American | 0.72% |
| Two or More Races | 2.12% |
Popularity of Marley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Marley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Marley surname increased by 145 between 2000 and 2010.
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Other English Surnames
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Frequently Asked Questions About Marley
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