Marlin vs Merlin

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Marlin

Boy #1,945 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"little hawk"

Origin: Germanic

English American

✓ All Clear

Boy #2,083 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"sea fortress"

Origin: Brittonic/Welsh

Welsh English French Medieval

✓ All Clear

Marlin Rank #1,945

Merlin Rank #2,083

Marlin is more popular, ranked #1945 vs #2083 for Merlin.

Is Marlin or Merlin more popular?

Marlin is more popular, ranked #1945 compared to Merlin at #2083 in the United States.

What do Marlin and Merlin mean?

Marlin means "little hawk" (Germanic origin). Merlin means "sea fortress" (Brittonic/Welsh origin).

Are Marlin and Merlin boy or girl names?

Marlin is primarily a boy name. Merlin is primarily a boy name.