“a kind of compassion or loving-kindness” — Associated with Buddhist practices
Germanic origin · Girl name
♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls
#11820US 2021
8Births / yr
↓Falling
1.1kAll-time births
📅 Since 188000.02% of births at peak
How to pronounce Metta
METT·AH
/ˈmɛtt.ˈɑ/ · stress on METT · 2 syllables
“a kind of compassion or loving-kindness”
Associated with Buddhist practices · Germanic origin
What does Metta mean and where does it come from?
Metta is often associated with Buddhist practices, particularly in the context of Metta Bhavana, which is the development of loving-kindness. The name gained recognition in the 19th and 20th centuries in various English-speaking countries. In German, it can sometimes be interpreted more traditionall
Cultural significance
Metta has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Germanic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a kind of compassion or loving-kindness.
Peak popularity
Reached #445 in 1880 — currently #11820 in the US.
Falling — down 3492 spots — currently #11820 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2021#11820 · Top 8.7%
1920
1925
1930
1935
1940
1945
1950
1955
1960
1965
1985
2010
2015
2020
2021
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2021
#11820
8
▼ down 3492 · -33% births
2020
#8328
12
▲ up 1144 · +9% births
2015
#9472
11
▲ up 5474 · +83% births
2010
#14946
6
▼ down 7382 · -25% births
1985
#7564
8
▼ down 2733
1965
#4831
8
▲ up 866 · +33% births
1960
#5697
6
▼ down 956 · -14% births
1955
#4741
7
▲ up 1 · +17% births
1950
#4742
6
▼ down 713
1945
#4029
6
▲ up 320 · +20% births
1940
#4349
5
▼ down 1910 · -58% births
1935
#2439
12
▲ up 115
1930
#2554
12
▼ down 758 · -48% births
1925
#1796
23
▲ up 219 · +21% births
1920
#2015
19
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Metta
1900Rank #971
23
#5011
↘Falling
1900 - 202119 years
The story of Metta
Metta has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 1,115 total births recorded, Metta remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #445 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #11820 in 2021.
Metta means "a kind of compassion or loving-kindness" — a name rooted in Germanic 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 Metta?
Metta is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Metta have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Metta?
Metta originates from Germanic tradition. Germanic 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 Metta?
Metta is a two-syllable name pronounced M EH1 T T AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Metta trending right now?
Metta is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Metta
For a sister
Metta & Ada♡
Metta & Lena♡
Metta & Otto♡
Metta & Adelaide♡
For a brother
Metta & Henry♡
Metta & Ada♡
Metta & Lena♡
Metta & Otto♡
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