The given name Marli is believed to have originated from the Latin word "maritus," which means "husband" or "spouse." This name has its roots in the ancient Roman culture, where it was initially used as a term of endearment between married couples.

In the early Middle Ages, the name Marli started gaining popularity as a feminine given name, particularly in regions that were once part of the Roman Empire, such as Italy, France, and Spain. It was often used as a diminutive form of the more common names Maria or Marlene.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Marli can be found in the medieval Italian text "Decameron" by Giovanni Boccaccio, written in the 14th century. In this work, the author mentions a character named Marli, who is described as a beautiful and virtuous woman.

Throughout history, there have been several notable figures who bore the name Marli. In the 16th century, Marli de' Medici (1573-1642) was an Italian noblewoman and a member of the powerful Medici family. She is known for her patronage of the arts and her involvement in the cultural Renaissance movement of that era.

Another famous Marli was Marli Antoinette (1755-1793), the infamous Queen of France during the French Revolution. Although her name is often spelled as Marie Antoinette, some historical records suggest that her given name was originally spelled as Marli.

In the literary world, Marli Shelley (1797-1851) was an English novelist and the author of the iconic Gothic novel "Frankenstein." Her work is considered a seminal piece of literature and has influenced countless writers and filmmakers over the centuries.

During the 20th century, Marli Curie (1867-1934) was a renowned Polish physicist and chemist, who is best known for her pioneering work on radioactivity. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and remains an influential figure in the field of science.

More recently, Marli Osmond (born 1959) is an American actress, singer, and television personality, who rose to fame as a child star in the 1960s and 1970s. She has had a successful career in various entertainment industries and is known for her versatility as a performer.