"Marlo" is a gender-neutral given name of Scandinavian origin. It is derived from the Old Norse words "marr" meaning horse and "úlfr" meaning wolf. Therefore, the name Marlo can be interpreted as "horse-wolf," which is quite unique and intriguing.
The use of the name Marlo can be traced back to medieval Scandinavia, where it was used among the Viking communities. However, its popularity has waxed and waned over the centuries. In recent times, it has gained some traction in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Despite its Scandinavian roots, Marlo is not a particularly common name even in Sweden or Norway today. This makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child that still has a familiar ring to it.
Overall, Marlo is a strong and memorable name with a rich history that dates back centuries. Its unique origin story adds to its allure, making it an attractive option for those seeking something different from the typical names found on baby name lists.
The name Marlo experienced a significant surge in popularity from the late 1960s to the early 1970s, with a peak of 84 births in 1972. However, it has since declined, with only 76 births recorded in 2022 and a recent high of 103 births in 2023. Over the entire period from 1915 to 2023, there were a total of 3481 babies named Marlo.