What does Meg mean and where does it come from?
Meg is typically a diminutive of Margaret, a name of Greek origin meaning 'pearl'. It became popular in the English-speaking world especially in the 20th century. Characters in literature, such as Meg March from 'Little Women', have contributed to the name's enduring appeal. It is often associated w
Cultural significance
Meg has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pearl.
Peak popularity
Reached #716 in 1959 — currently #14712 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Meg?
Meg works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Meg Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Meg Rose
Floral · soft ending
Meg Claire
French influence · crisp
Meg Jane
Literary · strong
Meg Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Meg right now?
Falling — down 7197 spots — currently #14712 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2022 | #14712 | 6 | ▼ down 7197 · -60% births |
| 2021 | #7515 | 15 | ▲ up 1460 · +36% births |
| 2020 | #8975 | 11 | ▼ down 2710 · -45% births |
| 2015 | #6265 | 20 | ▼ down 3094 · -62% births |
| 2010 | #3171 | 52 | ▼ down 1246 · -48% births |
| 2005 | #1925 | 100 | ▼ down 306 · -8% births |
| 2000 | #1619 | 109 | ▼ down 134 · +2% births |
| 1995 | #1485 | 107 | ▲ up 335 · +35% births |
| 1990 | #1820 | 79 | ▲ up 809 · +114% births |
| 1985 | #2629 | 37 | ▼ down 602 · -29% births |
| 1980 | #2027 | 52 | ▼ down 447 · -17% births |
| 1975 | #1580 | 63 | ▼ down 309 · -28% births |
| 1970 | #1271 | 87 | ▼ down 340 · -28% births |
| 1965 | #931 | 120 | ▼ down 168 · -33% births |
| 1960 | #763 | 179 | — |
The story of Meg
Meg entered American naming records in 1941 and has been in use for over 83 years. With 5,300 total births recorded, Meg remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2733 in 1945, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #14712 in 2022.
Names that peaked alongside Meg in 1959:
Meg by decade
Meg peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 97 | |
| 1950s | 858 | |
| 1960s ★ | 1,343 | |
| 1970s | 658 | |
| 1980s | 388 | |
| 1990s | 846 | |
| 2000s | 878 | |
| 2010s | 221 | |
| 2020s | 11 | |
💎With 5,300 total births, Meg is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Meg?
ENGLISH
MaeganMaeghanMeaganMeaghanMeganMeghan
What names sound and feel like Meg?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Meg also consider these
How is Meg written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Meg
What does the name Meg mean?
Meg means "Pearl" — a name rooted in United Kingdom tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Meg?
Meg is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Meg?
Meg originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Meg?
Meg is a one-syllable name pronounced M EH1 G. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Meg sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Meg flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Meg ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.