From a surname which was derived from a place name meaning 'eagle wood' in Old English. This name can also be a diminutive of Arlene. Arlie is most likely a diminutive of Arlene. Arlene possibly originates in Gaelic languages and means 'oath'. It has been fairly popular as a feminine given name in the English-speaking coutries. Some sources suggest, though, that its origin and meaning are unknown, or they might be associated with names such as Marlene, Charlene.