The name Marilee is a relatively modern combination of the names Marie and Lee. It first emerged as a feminine given name in the early 20th century, primarily in English-speaking countries such as the United States and Britain.

The first part of the name, Marie, has its roots in the Latin name Maria, which is derived from the Hebrew name Miryam or Miriam. This name has significant religious and historical significance, as it refers to the Virgin Mary in Christianity and the biblical figure Miriam in Judaism.

The second part of the name, Lee, is an English surname that originated as a nickname for the name Leah or a diminutive form of names like Leonie or Leonora. It has its roots in the Old English word "leah," which means a meadow or woodland clearing.

While the name Marilee does not have any direct historical references or appearances in ancient texts or religious scriptures, its component names have rich histories. The name Marie has been popular for centuries, particularly in Catholic cultures due to its association with the Virgin Mary.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Marilee can be found in the 1920s. Marilee Zuck, an American actress, was born in 1921 and had a career in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s.

Another notable individual with this name was Marilee Fors, a Swedish-American chess player who was born in 1938 and became a Woman International Master in 1976.

In the literary world, Marilee Randall was an American author and playwright who wrote several novels and plays in the late 20th century.

Marilee Stepan, born in 1947, was a Canadian politician and former member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.

Lastly, Marilee Talkington, an American actress and dancer, was born in 1976 and has appeared in various television shows and films.

While the name Marilee may not have a long historical lineage, it has gained popularity in recent decades and has been borne by notable individuals across various fields, showcasing its versatility and appeal.