مريم

Marian

girlSomali spelling of Maryam

Marian is a Muslim girl name meaning “Form of Maryam, mother of Jesus”.

MeaningForm of Maryam, mother of Jesus
GenderGirl
OriginSomali spelling of Maryam
Arabic spellingمريم
PronunciationMAR-yahn
Muslim name?Islamic / Arabic name

Meaning and origin of Marian

Among Somalis, Marian is a frequent spelling of Maryan, the Somali form of Maryam. The same spelling is also an English and European name derived from Mary or Marion, so in a Somali family it should be understood as Maryam. Maryam, the mother of Jesus, is honoured in the Quran as a woman chosen above the women of the worlds.

Is Marian a Muslim name?

Yes, when used by Somali families Marian is a spelling of Maryam, a Muslim name. In Europe the same spelling is a separate Christian name based on Mary.

Where is the name Marian used?

Used by Somali families, especially in the diaspora; elsewhere the spelling is a Western name.

Gifts with the name Marian

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Spellings and variants of Marian

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More girl names like Marian

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Marian mean?

Marian means 'Form of Maryam, mother of Jesus'. It comes from Somali spelling of Maryam.

Is Marian a Muslim name?

Yes, when used by Somali families Marian is a spelling of Maryam, a Muslim name. In Europe the same spelling is a separate Christian name based on Mary.

How do you write Marian in Arabic?

Marian is written مريم in Arabic script.

How do you pronounce Marian?

Marian is pronounced MAR-yahn.

Updated October 2026 · Researched by the Modern Muslim Names team. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.