What does Melford mean and where does it come from?
Melford has English origins, derived from the Old English elements 'mǣl' (mill) and 'ford' (river crossing). This name historically may refer to places in England where mills were common along riverbanks. The name has not been widely used in contemporary times but retains a traditional charm. It is
Cultural significance
Melford has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the river bank by the mill.
Peak popularity
Reached #1043 in 1921 — currently #1258 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 Melford?
Melford works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Melford Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Melford Rose
Floral · soft ending
Melford Mae
Sweet · timeless
Melford Claire
French influence · crisp
Melford Jane
Literary · strong
Melford Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Melford right now?
Holding steady — currently #1258 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1258 | 942 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1263 | 922 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1268 | 892 | ▲ up 3120 · +12643% births |
| 1975 | #4388 | 7 | ▲ up 460 · +40% births |
| 1970 | #4848 | 5 | ▼ down 1226 · -17% births |
| 1965 | #3622 | 6 | ▼ down 1369 · -54% births |
| 1955 | #2253 | 13 | ▼ down 270 · -13% births |
| 1950 | #1983 | 15 | ▼ down 418 · -21% births |
| 1945 | #1565 | 19 | ▲ up 286 · +27% births |
| 1940 | #1851 | 15 | ▼ down 279 · -25% births |
| 1935 | #1572 | 20 | ▼ down 151 · -26% births |
| 1930 | #1421 | 27 | ▼ down 302 · -32% births |
| 1925 | #1119 | 40 | ▲ up 457 · +67% births |
| 1920 | #1576 | 24 | ▲ up 269 · +50% births |
| 1915 | #1845 | 16 | — |
The story of Melford
Melford entered American naming records in 1904 and has been in use for over 120 years. With 1,175 total births recorded, Melford remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1845 in 1915 to #1258 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Melford in 1921:
Melford by decade
Melford peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 17 | |
| 1910s | 173 | |
| 1920s ★ | 334 | |
| 1930s | 226 | |
| 1940s | 184 | |
| 1950s | 135 | |
| 1960s | 53 | |
| 1970s | 46 | |
| 1980s | 7 | |
💎With 1,175 total births, Melford is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Melford?
What names sound and feel like Melford?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Melford also consider these
Common questions about the name Melford
What does the name Melford mean?
Melford means "From the river bank by the mill" — 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 Melford?
Melford is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Melford?
Melford 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 Melford?
Melford is a two-syllable name pronounced M EH1 L F AO1 R D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Melford a common or rare name?
Melford is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.