Marlyce is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin, derived from the French surname Marlise, which itself is believed to have originated from the Occitan word 'marlic', meaning 'bitter'. The name was brought to North America by French settlers in the early 17th century and has since been adopted into English-speaking communities. Marlyce is often seen as a blend of the names Mary and Lucy, reflecting its French roots while also incorporating elements of traditional English naming practices. It is rarely encountered today, making it an uncommon yet intriguing choice for parents seeking a name that is both distinctive and meaningful.
The name Marlyce peaked in popularity during the late 1930s to early 1940s, with a high of 22 births in 1935 and an average of around 17-20 births per year from 1936 to 1944. However, its usage significantly declined after the mid-1940s, dropping below double digits by 1952 and reaching a low of 5 births in 1960.