What does Myrtle mean and where does it come from?
Myrtle is derived from the name of the shrub known for its fragrant white and pink flowers. In ancient cultures, it symbolized love and immortality. The name has historical significance, appearing in various ancient texts, often linked to love goddesses. The usage spiked in the early 20th century in
Cultural significance
Myrtle has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of evergreen shrub; symbol of love and immortality.
Peak popularity
Reached #27 in 1894 — currently #1481 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Myrtle?
Myrtle works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Myrtle Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Myrtle Rose
Floral · soft ending
Myrtle Mae
Sweet · timeless
Myrtle Claire
French influence · crisp
Myrtle Jane
Literary · strong
Myrtle Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Myrtle right now?
Holding steady — currently #1481 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1481 | 719 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1486 | 699 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1491 | 669 | ▲ up 13006 · +11050% births |
| 2005 | #14497 | 6 | ▼ down 5728 · -33% births |
| 1995 | #8769 | 9 | ▲ up 474 · +13% births |
| 1990 | #9243 | 8 | ▼ down 2790 · -20% births |
| 1985 | #6453 | 10 | ▼ down 3316 · -63% births |
| 1980 | #3137 | 27 | ▼ down 1043 · -34% births |
| 1975 | #2094 | 41 | ▼ down 314 · -18% births |
| 1970 | #1780 | 50 | ▼ down 836 · -57% births |
| 1965 | #944 | 117 | ▼ down 174 · -33% births |
| 1960 | #770 | 175 | ▼ down 251 · -45% births |
| 1955 | #519 | 316 | ▼ down 144 · -31% births |
| 1950 | #375 | 460 | ▼ down 98 · -26% births |
| 1945 | #277 | 621 | — |
The story of Myrtle
Myrtle has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #27 in 1894. More than 136,960 babies have been named Myrtle since 1880. Once ranked #40 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1481 in 2023. Myrtle is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Myrtle in 1894:
Myrtle by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 9,810 | |
| 1890s | 17,786 | |
| 1900s | 19,755 | |
| 1910s ★ | 32,549 | |
| 1920s | 30,669 | |
| 1930s | 14,224 | |
| 1940s | 7,287 | |
| 1950s | 3,106 | |
| 1960s | 1,166 | |
| 1970s | 356 | |
| 1980s | 153 | |
| 1990s | 62 | |
| 2000s | 6 | |
| 2010s | 31 | |
What are good nicknames for Myrtle?
What names sound and feel like Myrtle?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Myrtle also consider these
How is Myrtle written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Myrtle
What does the name Myrtle mean?
Myrtle means "Evergreen shrub; symbol of love and immortality" — 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 Myrtle?
Myrtle 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 Myrtle?
Myrtle 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 Myrtle?
Myrtle is a two-syllable name pronounced M ER1 T AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Myrtle a common or rare name?
Myrtle is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.