This name is often used in Germany. I'm actually from Germany and I remember a few kids when I was younger called Melanie there. Melanie is often shortend to Mel (Mel.B, Mel.C) and people call me Melli a lot for short. I've read another meaning for Melanie somewhere else: 'Lady Of The Night'. I like the meaning of this name.
Melanie came onto the top 1000 list during the 1940's and rated the highest during the 1970's and 1980's and still remains on the top 1000 list, just not as high anymore.
-- Anonymous User 9/20/2006
Melanie is also the Czech form. Name Day: 30th June.