Girl · 623rd of 12,526
Arleen
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
12,598
Total Births
145
Years of Data
1939
Peak Popularity Year
415
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Arleen stands across generations
Rankings for U.S. births from 2013 to 2024.
Based on the most recent three-year movement in the national data.
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Meaning, origin & U.S. popularity
Summary
The name Arleen originates from English roots, derived from the Irish name Eibhlín, meaning 'desired' or 'longed for'. It evolved through various forms, including Arlene, before becoming Arleen. The name is associated with traits of elegance and charm. It has no biblical relevance but gained popularity in the 20th century, particularly in America. Today, it is perceived as a vintage name with a warm appeal, and notable bearers include Arleen Sorkin and Arleen McBeath.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/ɑːrˈliːn/
Origin
English
Etymology
The name Arleen is believed to be a variation of the name Arlene, which itself is derived from the Irish name Eibhlín, meaning 'desired' or 'longed for'. It has also been linked to the Gaelic word 'ailin', meaning 'little rock'.
Meaning
desired, longed for, little rock
Language Evolution
Eibhlín, Arlene, Arleen
Historical Usage
Arleen gained popularity in the 20th century, particularly in the United States, as a feminine name that was often seen as modern and elegant.
Variants & Derivatives
Arlene, Aileen, Eileen
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, Arleen is viewed as a vintage name that carries a sense of charm and delicacy. It is not as commonly used today but retains a warm, nostalgic appeal.
Famous People
Arleen Sorkin, an American actress and television personality, Arleen McBeath, a notable figure in the field of education
Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
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Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 415 peak births in 1939
Geographic Spread
Popular across 38 US states, with strongest presence in Hawaii
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 8 different American generations with varying popularity
Alternative spellings & similar sounds
Compare 2 names that share a similar pronunciation but use different spellings.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Full popularity table across American generations 8 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Boy | 6464th of 6773 | 6 |
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Girl | 701st of 9107 | 1,917 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Girl | 507th of 9204 | 3,489 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 623rd of 12526 | 4,317 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 1645th of 19264 | 946 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 3157th of 27321 | 523 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 2994th of 35406 | 847 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 3489th of 30306 | 541 |