Find out how popular the first name Maylena has been for the last 11 years (from 2007 to 2017) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Maylena by gender

Based on the last 11 years of data, Maylena is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2017, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Maylena.

The history of the first name Maylena

The name Maylena has its origins in the Greek language, derived from the combination of the words "melaina" meaning "black" and "lena" meaning "light" or "brightness." This juxtaposition of contrasting elements suggests a name that symbolizes the harmonious coexistence of opposites.

In ancient Greek mythology, the name Maylena was sometimes associated with the moon goddess Selene, who was often depicted as having a radiant countenance that illuminated the night sky. This connection to celestial bodies and the interplay of light and dark imbued the name with a sense of mystery and intrigue.

The earliest recorded use of the name Maylena can be traced back to the Byzantine Empire, where it was occasionally bestowed upon noble women of the imperial court. One notable figure was Maylena Palaiologina, a princess born in 1376, who married the Grand Prince of Moscow and played a pivotal role in fostering cultural ties between the Byzantine and Russian empires.

During the Renaissance period, the name Maylena gained popularity across Europe, particularly in Italy and Spain. One prominent bearer of the name was Maylena Grimaldi, a 16th-century Italian noblewoman renowned for her patronage of the arts and her influential role in the cultural life of Renaissance Florence.

In the realm of literature, the name Maylena appeared in the works of renowned poets and playwrights. William Shakespeare's tragic play "Hamlet" featured a character named Maylena, who was depicted as the daughter of the ill-fated Prince of Denmark. This literary reference further cemented the name's association with themes of duality and complexity.

Throughout history, several other notable figures have borne the name Maylena. Maylena Villiers was a 17th-century English courtier and mistress of King Charles II, known for her wit and influence at the Restoration court. In the 19th century, Maylena Mercouri was a renowned Greek actress and political activist who played a crucial role in promoting Greek culture and advocating for women's rights.

Another famous Maylena was the Mexican artist Maylena Kahlo, born in 1907, whose surrealist paintings and self-portraits captured the struggles and complexities of her life. Her works often incorporated elements of Mexican folklore and indigenous traditions, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of her homeland.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Maylena was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Maylena, please contact us.

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