What does Meridith mean and where does it come from?
Meridith is derived from the Welsh name 'Meri''dith', which means 'great ruler'. It has been adapted as a female name in English-speaking countries, especially in the United States, where it became popular in the mid-20th century. The name has historical significance and reflects traits of leadershi
Cultural significance
Meridith has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of great ruler.
Peak popularity
Reached #1130 in 1971 — currently #1460 in the US.
Holding steady — currently #1460 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1940–2023#1460 · Top 1.1%
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1460
740
▲ up 5 · +3% births
2022
#1465
720
▲ up 5 · +4% births
2021
#1470
690
▲ up 13149 · +11400% births
2015
#14619
6
▼ down 3293 · -33% births
2010
#11326
9
▼ down 5300 · -55% births
2005
#6026
20
▼ down 1826 · -31% births
2000
#4200
29
▼ down 301 · +7% births
1995
#3899
27
▼ down 1693 · -53% births
1990
#2206
58
▼ down 149 · +12% births
1985
#2057
52
▼ down 699 · -44% births
1980
#1358
93
▲ up 129 · +35% births
1975
#1487
69
▼ down 151 · -13% births
1970
#1336
79
▲ up 1543 · +316% births
1965
#2879
19
▲ up 1704 · +111% births
1960
#4583
9
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Meridith
1970Rank #1336
740
#3797
↘Falling
1940 - 202319 years
The story of Meridith
Meridith entered American naming records in 1939 and has been in use for over 85 years. With 2,678 total births recorded, Meridith remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4161 in 1940 to #1460 in 2023. Meridith is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Meridith means "great ruler" — a name rooted in American 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 Meridith?
Meridith is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Meridith?
Meridith originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
What sibling names go well with Meridith?
Meridith pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar American heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Is Meridith a common or rare name?
Meridith is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Meridith
For a sister
Meridith & Weston♡
Meridith & Summer♡
Meridith & Ashton♡
Meridith & Jesse♡
For a brother
Meridith & Wesley♡
Meridith & Weston♡
Meridith & Summer♡
Meridith & Jason♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1460
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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