What does Mehr mean and where does it come from?
Mehr is a female name of Persian origin, meaning 'sun' as well as 'kindness' or 'affection'. It is commonly used in Iran and can also be found in India among the Parsi community. Variations of the name include Mehrnaz and Mehrdad. The name appears in historical texts and poetry, indicating its long-
Cultural significance
Mehr has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Iran-speaking communities, where it reflects values of sun, kindness, affection.
Peak popularity
Reached #5397 in 2019 — currently #6472 in the US.
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Related Reading
Iran-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Mehr?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Mehr?
Mehr works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Mehr Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Mehr Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Mehr Claire
One syllable · timeless choice
Mehr Zoey
One syllable · vintage charm
Mehr Jade
One syllable · vintage charm
Mehr Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Mehr right now?
Rising fast — up 372 spots — currently #6472 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #6472 | 18 | ▲ up 372 · +6% births |
| 2024 | #6844 | 17 | ▼ down 14 |
| 2023 | #6830 | 17 | ▲ up 2605 · +55% births |
| 2022 | #9435 | 11 | ▼ down 3561 · -48% births |
| 2021 | #5874 | 21 | ▼ down 470 · -9% births |
| 2020 | #5404 | 23 | ▲ up 3888 · +92% births |
| 2015 | #9292 | 12 | ▲ up 348 |
| 2010 | #9640 | 12 | ▲ up 4479 · +71% births |
| 2005 | #14119 | 7 | ▲ up 3299 · +40% births |
| 2000 | #17418 | 5 | — |
The story of Mehr
Mehr is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2000. With 226 total births recorded, Mehr remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #17418 in 2000 to #6830 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Mehr in 2019:
💎Mehr has only 226 total recorded births since 2000 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Mehr?
What names sound and feel like Mehr?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Mehr also consider these
How is Mehr written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Mehr?
Common questions about the name Mehr
What does the name Mehr mean?
Mehr means "sun, kindness, affection" — a name rooted in Iran 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 Mehr?
Mehr 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 Mehr?
Mehr originates from Iran tradition. Iran names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How does Mehr sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Mehr flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Mehr ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is Mehr a common or rare name?
Mehr is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.