Marlow is a unique and distinctive name of English origin that has gained popularity in recent years. It is derived from the surname Marlowe, which was originally an occupational name for someone who lived near a lake or pool. The name Marlow itself means "lake" or "pool," and it is often associated with water.
The name Marlow has a rich history, particularly in literature. It is most famously associated with the fictional character Sherlock Holmes' partner Dr. John Watson, whose adventure "The Adventure of the Speckled Band" takes place at a house called "Marlow House." Additionally, the English poet Christopher Marlowe was born and raised in the town of Canterbury, which is located near the town of Marlow in Buckinghamshire.
In terms of its popularity as a given name, Marlow has seen increased usage since the late 20th century. It first appeared on the Social Security Administration's list of the top 1,000 names for boys in the United States in 1986 and has remained there ever since, with its peak popularity coming in recent years. Today, Marlow is considered a modern classic name that is both unique and approachable.
Overall, Marlow is an attractive name option for parents looking for something distinctive yet accessible for their child. Its English origins and literary associations give it a certain sophistication, while its meaning relating to water adds an elemental quality that many find appealing. Whether you're drawn to the name's history or simply appreciate its sound, Marlow makes a strong choice for a boy's name.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Marlow has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States.
From 1910 to around 1968, the number of births with the name Marlow remained relatively low and fluctuating, ranging from as few as 5 births per year to as many as 28. However, starting in 1969, there was a notable increase in popularity.
The years 1969 and 1970 saw 28 births each, marking the beginning of a steady rise in Marlow's popularity. By 1973, this number had reached an all-time high at that point with 40 births. This trend continued through to 1978, with the highest recorded number of births being 45 in 1978.
However, after 1978, the popularity of Marlow began to decline again, reaching a low of just 5 births per year between 1990 and 1992. This pattern of fluctuating popularity persisted until around 2013, with no clear upward or downward trend.
Nevertheless, since 2013, there has been another significant increase in the number of babies named Marlow. From 26 births in 2013, this number rose to a new peak of 58 births in 2021. The latest data shows that 57 babies were named Marlow in 2022 and 57 again in 2023.
In total, over the span of these years, there have been 2077 recorded births with the name Marlow in the United States. Despite its fluctuations in popularity, Marlow remains a distinctive and memorable name choice for parents across the country.