Marian
|mar-i-an|
🇺🇸
/ˈmɛriən/
🇬🇧
/ˈmærɪən/
of Mary / belonging to Marius
Etymology
'Marian' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'Marianus', where 'Marius' was a Roman family name and the suffix '-anus' meant 'belonging to' or 'related to'.
'Marian' developed from Late Latin 'Marianus' into Medieval and Middle English forms (also influenced as a feminine form related to 'Maria'), and eventually became the modern English given name and adjective 'Marian'.
Initially it signified 'belonging to Marius' (or as a feminine formation, 'of Maria'), but over time it evolved into a common English personal name and an adjective meaning 'of or relating to the Virgin Mary'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a female given name (personal name), used in English-speaking countries; historically derived from Latin forms related to 'Maria' or 'Marianus'.
Marian accepted the invitation to speak at the conference.
Noun 2
a supporter or follower of Mary I of England (historical usage: 'a Marian').
During the 16th-century conflicts, Marians and Elizabethans took opposing positions.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 1
relating to the Virgin Mary (e.g., Marian devotion, Marian imagery).
The church hosts a Marian festival every May.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/09/24 05:35