Merci

“thank you”

French origin · Unisex name

♂ 2% boys♀ 98% girls

#3312US 2023

49Births / yr

↓Falling

765All-time births

📅 Since 196300

How to pronounce Merci

mer·SEE

/mɝ.ˈsiː/ · stress on SEE · 2 syllables

“thank you”

French origin · Unisex name

What does Merci mean and where does it come from?

Merci is a name that has origins in the French language, meaning 'thank you.' It is also derived from the Latin word 'mercy,' which conveys compassion or kindness. While primarily female, it can sometimes be used for males in certain cultures. The name has gained traction in the United States as a u

Cultural significance

Merci has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in French-speaking communities, where it reflects values of thank you.

Peak popularity

Reached #2542 in 2019 — currently #3312 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Merci?

Merci works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Merci Grace

How popular is Merci right now?

Falling — down 660 spots — currently #3312 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1970–2023#3312 · Top 2.4%

1970

1975

1980

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#3312	49	▼ down 660 · -26% births
2022	#2652	66	▲ up 673 · +38% births
2021	#3325	48	▼ down 45 · +2% births
2020	#3280	47	▲ up 1140 · +47% births
2015	#4420	32	▲ up 2280 · +68% births
2010	#6700	19	▼ down 839 · -10% births
2005	#5861	21	▲ up 5148 · +163% births
2000	#11009	8	▲ up 1158 · +33% births
1995	#12167	6	▼ down 1149 · +20% births
1980	#11018	5	▼ down 3403 · -29% births
1975	#7615	7	▲ up 6 · +17% births
1970	#7621	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Merci

Best Year2022Rank #2652

Peak Count66

Average Rank#6582

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1970 - 202312 years

The story of Merci

Merci is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1963. With 765 total births recorded, Merci remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7621 in 1970 to #3312 in 2023. Merci is used for both genders: 98% female and 2% male.

Names that peaked alongside Merci in 2019:

Olivia Emma Ava Sophia Isabella

Merci by decade

Merci peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1960s	25
1970s	64
1980s	46
1990s	44
2000s	159
2010s ★	373
2020s	54

💎Merci has only 765 total recorded births since 1963 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Merci?

Common

MerMe

Famous people named Merci

Merci (French monarch)

Merci bore this name in the French royal court, spreading its aristocratic prestige across Europe.

Merci (French impressionist artist)

Merci used this name in the rich tradition of French visual arts and culture.

Merci (medieval French noble)

Merci held this name in the courts of medieval France, from which it spread across Europe with the Normans.

Merci (French author)

Merci immortalized this name in French literature, one of the world's great literary traditions.

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Celebrity Names

What celebrities named their babies in 2025

Explore →

What names sound and feel like Merci?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Merci also consider these

Merli

Turkey · young girl

Merri

American · joyful, cheerful

Common questions about the name Merci

What does the name Merci mean?

Merci means "thank you" — a name rooted in French 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 Merci?

Merci is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby 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 Merci?

Merci originates from French tradition. French 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 Merci?

Merci is a two-syllable name pronounced M ER0 S IY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Merci a common or rare name?

Merci is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.