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Marley

Boy / Girl name · 628 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Marley: 628 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to both boys and girls, peaking at 26 births in 2014.

Marley began as an English surname rooted in place names, from Old English *mearth* (“marten”) or *mǣre* (“boundary”) combined with *lēah* (“wood, clearing”), giving meanings like “marten wood” or “boundary wood”. The name rocketed to global fame through reggae legend Bob Marley, whose music and message of unity remain iconic. Activist Marley Dias, who launched the #1000BlackGirlBooks campaign, carries the name into a new generation. There’s also a Scottish connection: the village of Marley in West Lothian shares the same Old English etymology. A versatile choice, Marley is now a popular unisex name in Scotland, often used for both boys and girls—a trend that reflects its modern, melodic feel and easygoing charm.