Name Detail
Melanie is a feminine given name derived from the Greek μελανία (melania), "blackness" and that from μέλας (melas), meaning "dark". Borne in its Latin form by two saints, Melania the Elder and her granddaughter Melania the Younger, the name was introduced to England by the Normans in its French form Melanie. However, the name only became common in English usage in the 1930s because of the popularity of Margaret Mitchell's 1936 novel Gone with the Wind and its 1939 film adaptation, as one of the novel's main characters was named Melanie Hamilton. The name's popularity increased until the 1970s, since remaining constant. Melanie was the 80th most popular name for girls born in the United States in 1957 and, as Mélanie, it was the 86th most popular name for girls born in France in 2004.
dark
A girl name with 2 syllables. Currently considered common.
Explore how the popularity of Melanie has changed over the last two decades.
The name Melanie originates from the Greek word 'melas', meaning 'black' or 'dark'. It was popular in early Christian times, possibly as a reference to the darkness of the human soul before conversion. The name has seen periods of resurgence in popularity throughout the 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries.
Melanie Griffith, Melanie Thornton, Melanie Safka, Melanie Fiona, Melanie Blatt
Mel, Melly, Lanie, Milly
Deep dive into history & etymology
