What does Melton mean and where does it come from?
Melton has its roots in Old English, traditionally used as a surname before transitioning to a first name in modern times. It literally means 'from the mill town', indicating origins in a location known for milling activities. Melton is prevalent in the UK and has made appearances in the U.S. It is
Cultural significance
Melton has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of meaning 'from the mill town', combining elements for 'mill' and 'town'..
Peak popularity
Reached #526 in 1888 — currently #1747 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 Melton?
Melton works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Melton Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Melton Rose
Floral · soft ending
Melton Mae
Sweet · timeless
Melton Claire
French influence · crisp
Melton Jane
Literary · strong
Melton Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Melton right now?
Holding steady — currently #1747 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1747 | 453 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2022 | #1752 | 433 | ▲ up 5 · +7% births |
| 2021 | #1757 | 403 | ▲ up 10342 · +7960% births |
| 2015 | #12099 | 5 | ▲ up 167 |
| 2010 | #12266 | 5 | ▼ down 4602 · -44% births |
| 2005 | #7664 | 9 | ▲ up 572 · +29% births |
| 2000 | #8236 | 7 | ▼ down 1803 · -12% births |
| 1995 | #6433 | 8 | ▼ down 2017 · -33% births |
| 1990 | #4416 | 12 | ▼ down 1457 · -25% births |
| 1985 | #2959 | 16 | ▼ down 410 · -16% births |
| 1980 | #2549 | 19 | ▼ down 653 · -24% births |
| 1975 | #1896 | 25 | ▼ down 470 · -29% births |
| 1970 | #1426 | 35 | ▼ down 278 · -19% births |
| 1965 | #1148 | 43 | ▼ down 97 · -20% births |
| 1960 | #1051 | 54 | — |
The story of Melton
Melton has been a beloved American name for over 142 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1882. With 4,230 total births recorded, Melton remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #853 in 1895, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1747 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Melton in 1888:
Melton by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 49 | |
| 1890s | 53 | |
| 1900s | 88 | |
| 1910s | 416 | |
| 1920s | 686 | |
| 1930s | 680 | |
| 1940s ★ | 710 | |
| 1950s | 594 | |
| 1960s | 415 | |
| 1970s | 252 | |
| 1980s | 142 | |
| 1990s | 81 | |
| 2000s | 49 | |
| 2010s | 15 | |
💎With 4,230 total births, Melton is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Melton?
What names sound and feel like Melton?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Melton also consider these
Common questions about the name Melton
What does the name Melton mean?
Melton means "meaning 'from the mill town', combining elements for 'mill' and 'town'." — 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 Melton?
Melton 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 Melton?
Melton 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 Melton?
Melton is a two-syllable name pronounced M EH1 L T AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Melton a common or rare name?
Melton is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.