Marilyn - too associated with Marilyn Monroe?

Question

My hubby loves the name Marilyn. It's not that I dislike the name, but I automatically think of Marilyn Monroe - a pretty woman but also very troubled. Does everyone else make this same association with this name?

His other choice is Sylvia. Okay, but again, I think of Slyvia Plath - another suicide victim! This one might be a less of a connection for people (I was an English major in college, LOL) but while we're at it let me know if you also make this association with the name Slyvia.

Oops, that should be "Sylvia" - I'm typing too fast.

Cripes, I didn't even think of Marilyn Manson. Hmm...

Answer 1

You may not be the only one to make the association but your child would hardly be the only one with either name and as time marches on the names are less associated with the troubled ladies - especially Sylvia Plath who isn't as well known pop culture wise.

Answer 2

I think Marilyn is fairly safe these days, given the number of similar Madelyn/Madeline/Madeleines out there at the moment. ;) Sort of fits right in rather than being an overly-obvious Hollywood reference, if you follow.

Likewise, while I do think of Sylvia Plath, I majored in and work in journalism/PR/advertising (so obviously a very literary-centered field), and I don't think most would immediately have that association. Also, despite the fact that Plath does come to mind, it's more in a classic sense. My mind wouldn't directly jump to a disturbed and/or suicidal person if I were to run into a little Sylvia. ;) Quite the opposite! I'd simply think the parents had excellent, classic taste! You might try the simpler French form Sylvie to slightly sidestep that association, however, if you think it will bother you. ;)

Answer 3

Hmmm ... I *do* think of Marilyn Monroe, but I'm not sure that would stop me from using the name. Any chance he'd go for Mariel/Marielle? It sounds almost the same, but is the tiniest bit different, and I think it makes a big difference.

A girl named Sylvia will get the Plath association thrown back at her, of course, but I think that's less of an obvious connection to make. And the nickname Sylvie is quite cute.

Sylvia would be my first choice; Marilyn is a distant second, but Mariel is my favorite of all.

Good luck!

Answer 4

These days, Marilyn is more associated with Manson than Monroe. But I wouldn't let that be the deciding cause in the name of the child. Very few will make this association!

Answer 5

A name is personal choice but since your asking for advice her is mine......I think both Marilyn and Sylvia are "old" sounding names. My grandmother of 74 is named Marilyn. And when hearing the name Sylvia I think of Sylvia Brown the psychic. What about Sophia or Ella? They are both older names but sound a bit more modern. Ultimately it is up to the two of you...good luck!

Answer 6

Yes, I automatically think of Marilyn Monroe and Sylvia Plath, however, I much prefer Marilyn to Sylvia. Sylvia sounds so old. I think a good alternative to Sylvia is Sophia - same initial, same number of syllables, half of the same letters, but a little "fresher" sounding. Good luck!

Answer 7

Alternatives?

Silvana or Sylvie
Marina
Savana
Marlena
Scarlett
Marilana
Santina

But sylvia & Marilyn are nice names I dont make the associations.

Answer 8

i really like the name Marilyn and yes, it will always be associated with Marilyn Monroe. however, i don't really see that as a bad thing. everyone has problems.
sylvia is ok. i don't think its very pretty.

Answer 9

they are the two sought after intercourse icons. They have been the two interior the Golden Age of Hollywood. Marilyn Monroe is particularly like the genuine existence Betty Boop besides the actuality that Betty Boop grew to become into stimulated by potential of yet another actress in 1930, named Helen Kane, by potential of Fleischer studios. they are the two staggering!

Answer 10

Well when i see that name i think of Marilyn Manson.