Mariann is a feminine given name with roots tracing back to ancient Latin and Greek. The name is a combination of the names Maria and Anna, both of which have biblical origins.

The first part of the name, Maria, is derived from the Hebrew name Miryam, which means "beloved" or "wished-for child." This was the name given to the mother of Jesus Christ in the New Testament of the Bible. The second part, Anna, comes from the Hebrew name Hannah, meaning "grace" or "favor." Anna was the name of the biblical mother of Samuel the prophet.

The combined form, Mariann or Marian, gained popularity during the Middle Ages as a way to honor the Virgin Mary and her mother, Saint Anne. It was widely used in Christian communities across Europe, particularly in regions with strong Catholic or Orthodox traditions.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Mariann can be found in the writings of the 7th-century English monk and scholar, the Venerable Bede. He mentions a young woman named Mariann who was a member of the Northumbrian royal family.

Throughout history, several notable women have borne the name Mariann. Mariann Aubo (1753-1829) was a French composer and pianist during the Classical period. Mariann Hübner (1800-1837) was a German actress and playwright known for her work in the Romantic era. Mariann Brandt (1842-1921) was a Swedish novelist and pioneering feminist writer.

In the 20th century, Mariann Moore (1887-1972) was an American modernist poet and writer who played a significant role in the Imagist movement. Mariann Sägebrecht (born 1945) is a renowned German actress known for her roles in films such as "Bagdad Cafe" and "The Nasty Girl."

While the name Mariann has maintained a presence across various cultures, its popularity has fluctuated over time. Its enduring appeal lies in its rich historical roots and the reverence for the biblical figures it honors.