What does Meir mean and where does it come from?
Meir (מֵאִיר) is a Hebrew name that means 'one who shines' or 'bringer of light'. It is a traditional Jewish name and has been used since the medieval period. Notable persons with this name include Meir Ariel, an influential Israeli singer-songwriter. The name has its roots in the Talmud, where it a
Cultural significance
Meir has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Israel-speaking communities, where it reflects values of one who shines.
Peak popularity
Reached #1002 in 2020 — currently #931 in the US.
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Related Reading
Israel-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Meir?
Meir works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Meir Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Meir Rose
Floral · soft ending
Meir Claire
French influence · crisp
Meir Jane
Literary · strong
Meir Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Meir right now?
Rising — up 43 spots — currently #931 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #931 | 244 | ▲ up 43 · +5% births |
| 2022 | #974 | 232 | ▲ up 134 · +24% births |
| 2021 | #1108 | 187 | ▼ down 106 · -11% births |
| 2020 | #1002 | 209 | ▲ up 209 · +38% births |
| 2015 | #1211 | 152 | ▲ up 199 · +29% births |
| 2010 | #1410 | 118 | ▲ up 165 · +34% births |
| 2005 | #1575 | 88 | ▲ up 629 · +96% births |
| 2000 | #2204 | 45 | ▼ down 122 · +13% births |
| 1995 | #2082 | 40 | ▲ up 381 · +43% births |
| 1990 | #2463 | 28 | ▲ up 5 · +33% births |
| 1985 | #2468 | 21 | ▲ up 216 · +17% births |
| 1980 | #2684 | 18 | ▼ down 421 · -10% births |
| 1975 | #2263 | 20 | ▲ up 758 · +82% births |
| 1970 | #3021 | 11 | ▲ up 1253 · +120% births |
| 1965 | #4274 | 5 | — |
The story of Meir
Meir entered American naming records in 1951 and has been in use for over 73 years. With 3,412 total births recorded, Meir remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4274 in 1965 to #931 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Meir in 2020:
Meir by decade
Meir peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 26 | |
| 1960s | 48 | |
| 1970s | 150 | |
| 1980s | 271 | |
| 1990s | 455 | |
| 2000s | 775 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,478 | |
| 2020s | 209 | |
💎With 3,412 total births, Meir is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Meir?
What names sound and feel like Meir?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Meir also consider these
How is Meir written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Meir?
Common questions about the name Meir
What does the name Meir mean?
Meir means "one who shines" — a name rooted in Israel 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 Meir?
Meir is currently ranked #931 as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Meir have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Meir?
Meir originates from Israel tradition. Israel 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 Meir?
Meir is a one-syllable name pronounced M AY1 R. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Meir sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Meir flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Meir ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.