What does Meryl mean and where does it come from?
Meryl is often considered a diminutive or derivative of the name 'Muriel,' which has roots in the Irish and French languages. It became more popular in the 20th century, especially in English-speaking countries, with notable popularity due to actress Meryl Streep. The name Meryl is also tied to the
Cultural significance
Meryl has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of of the sea.
Peak popularity
Reached #749 in 1952 — currently #8689 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Meryl?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Meryl?
Meryl works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Meryl Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Meryl Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Meryl Claire
One syllable · timeless choice
Meryl Zoey
One syllable · vintage charm
Meryl Jade
One syllable · vintage charm
Meryl Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Meryl right now?
Falling — down 3135 spots — currently #8689 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #8689 | 12 | ▼ down 3135 · -48% births |
| 2024 | #5554 | 23 | ▼ down 4116 · -97% births |
| 2023 | #1438 | 762 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1443 | 742 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1448 | 712 | ▲ up 4380 · +3460% births |
| 2020 | #5828 | 20 | ▼ down 2578 · -60% births |
| 2015 | #3250 | 50 | ▲ up 3673 · +178% births |
| 2010 | #6923 | 18 | ▼ down 1801 · -28% births |
| 2005 | #5122 | 25 | ▲ up 592 · +32% births |
| 2000 | #5714 | 19 | ▼ down 2348 · -42% births |
| 1995 | #3366 | 33 | ▼ down 899 · -33% births |
| 1990 | #2467 | 49 | ▼ down 834 · -32% births |
| 1985 | #1633 | 72 | ▲ up 119 · +14% births |
| 1980 | #1752 | 63 | ▲ up 2646 · +350% births |
| 1975 | #4398 | 14 | — |
The story of Meryl
Meryl has been a beloved American name for over 132 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1892. With 5,505 total births recorded, Meryl remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1502 in 1905 to #1438 in 2023. Meryl is used for both genders: 92% female and 8% male.
Names that peaked alongside Meryl in 1952:
Meryl by decade
Meryl peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 31 | |
| 1900s | 49 | |
| 1910s | 250 | |
| 1920s | 446 | |
| 1930s | 386 | |
| 1940s | 710 | |
| 1950s ★ | 1,326 | |
| 1960s | 626 | |
| 1970s | 199 | |
| 1980s | 663 | |
| 1990s | 335 | |
| 2000s | 203 | |
| 2010s | 261 | |
| 2020s | 55 | |
💎With 5,505 total births, Meryl is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Meryl?
ENGLISH
BerylCherCheretteCheriCherieCherilynCherrylCherylMarielMerleMerrillSharalynSharylSherillSherilynSherylSheryll
What names sound and feel like Meryl?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Meryl also consider these
How is Meryl written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Meryl
What does the name Meryl mean?
Meryl means "of the sea" — a name rooted in English 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 Meryl?
Meryl 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 Meryl?
Meryl originates from English tradition. English 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 Meryl?
Meryl is a two-syllable name pronounced MER-ul. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Meryl a common or rare name?
Meryl is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.