marilyn: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1General, Cultural
Quick answer
What does “marilyn” mean?
A given female forename.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A given female forename.
A cultural icon referring specifically to Marilyn Monroe (1926–1962), a famous American actress, model, and singer. It can also refer to individuals with that given name.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant grammatical differences. The cultural reference to Monroe is universally understood in the English-speaking world.
Connotations
In both varieties, the name can carry connotations of 1950s glamour, Hollywood stardom, and tragic beauty when referencing Monroe.
Frequency
Equally low frequency as a first name in contemporary use in both regions. The cultural reference is equally frequent.
Grammar
How to Use “marilyn” in a Sentence
[Proper Noun] (Monroe)[Given Name] [Surname]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “marilyn” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- n/a
American English
- n/a
adverb
British English
- n/a
American English
- n/a
adjective
British English
- She has a very Marilyn Monroe-esque quality about her.
American English
- That dress is totally Marilyn.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly in entertainment or branding contexts (e.g., 'the Marilyn brand').
Academic
In film studies, cultural studies, or gender studies discussing Monroe's impact.
Everyday
Referring to the famous actress or someone you know named Marilyn.
Technical
Not applicable.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “marilyn”
- Misspelling as 'Marylin' or 'Merilyn'.
- Using it as a common noun (e.g., 'a marilyn') unless in very specific artistic contexts.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it peaked in popularity in the mid-20th century, largely due to Marilyn Monroe, and is now much less common.
Informally, yes, often to describe a style reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe (e.g., 'Marilyn curls', 'a Marilyn look').
In American English, it is commonly /ˈmer.ə.lɪn/ (MARE-uh-lin) or /ˈmær.ə.lɪn/ (MARR-uh-lin). In British English, it is typically /ˈmær.ɪ.lɪn/ (MARR-i-lin).
She is iconic due to her combination of blonde bombshell persona, comedic and dramatic acting talent, widely publicized personal life, and her status as a symbol of a specific era in Hollywood.
A given female forename.
Marilyn is usually general, cultural in register.
Marilyn: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmær.ɪ.lɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmer.ə.lɪn/ or /ˈmær.ə.lɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “n/a”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'Mary' and 'Lynn' combined, made famous by Monroe.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE NAME STANDS FOR THE PERSONA (Metonymy). 'Marilyn' represents the entire construct of glamour, fame, and vulnerability associated with Monroe.
Practice
Quiz
What is 'Marilyn' most commonly recognised as in global culture?