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
Holding steady — currently #1258 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2023#1258 · Top 0.93%
1915
1920
1925
1930
1935
1940
1945
1950
1955
1965
1970
1975
2021
2022
2023
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
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Melford
1925Rank #1119
942
#2122
↘Falling
1915 - 202315 years
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.
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.
Sibling names that pair with Melford
For a sister
Melford & Winston♡
Melford & Rupert♡
Melford & Prebble♡
Melford & Lillian♡
For a brother
Melford & Edward♡
Melford & Winston♡
Melford & Rupert♡
Melford & Wakefield♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1258
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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