“Merritt transitioned from a surname to a given name in the 20th century”
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 72% boys♀ 28% girls
#1563US 2023
136Births / yr
↓Falling
8kAll-time births
📅 Since 191900.01% of births at peak
How to pronounce Merritt
MER·it
/ˈmɛr.ɪt/ · stress on MER · 2 syllables
“Merritt transitioned from a surname to a given name in the 20th century”
American origin · Unisex name
What does Merritt mean and where does it come from?
Merritt transitioned from a surname to a given name in the 20th century. It reflects a connection to the landscape and geography, as it pertains to locations near boundaries or lakes. Although more common as a male name historically, it has gained traction as a feminine name in modern naming trends.
Cultural significance
Merritt has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #1331 in 2017 — currently #1563 in the US.
Declining — down 20 spots — currently #1563 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1970–2023#1563 · Top 1.2%
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1563
136
▼ down 20 · -2% births
2022
#1543
139
▲ up 103 · +9% births
2021
#1646
127
▼ down 125 · -8% births
2020
#1521
138
▲ up 773 · +70% births
2015
#2294
81
▲ up 2314 · +161% births
2010
#4608
31
▼ down 876 · -21% births
2005
#3732
39
▲ up 450 · +34% births
2000
#4182
29
▼ down 960 · -17% births
1995
#3222
35
▲ up 1165 · +59% births
1990
#4387
22
▼ down 759 · -4% births
1985
#3628
23
▲ up 898 · +44% births
1980
#4526
16
▼ down 1258 · -24% births
1975
#3268
21
▼ down 869 · -32% births
1970
#2399
31
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Merritt
2020Rank #1521
139
#3037
↗Rising
1970 - 202314 years
The story of Merritt
Merritt entered American naming records in 1919 and has been in use for over 105 years. With 7,971 total births recorded, Merritt remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2399 in 1970 to #1563 in 2023. Merritt is used for both genders: 28% female and 72% male.
Merritt means "English" — 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 Merritt?
Merritt is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Merritt have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Merritt?
Merritt 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.
How do you pronounce the name Merritt?
Merritt is a two-syllable name pronounced M EH1 R IH0 T. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Merritt trending right now?
Merritt is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Merritt
For a sister
Merritt & Avery♡
Merritt & Ivy♡
Merritt & Willow♡
Merritt & Zoey♡
For a brother
Merritt & Oliver♡
Merritt & Elijah♡
Merritt & Hudson♡
Merritt & Ethan♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1563
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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