Meaning, origin, history
Meritt is a unique and uncommon name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "meriþ", which means "joy" or "pleasure". This name has been used throughout history, but it is not very popular today.
The earliest recorded instance of the name Meritt can be found in medieval England. In the Domesday Book of 1086, there was a place called "Meret" in Lincolnshire, which suggests that the name may have had some popularity during that time period.
Throughout history, the name Meritt has been associated with various notable figures. For example, Sir Thomas Merrett was an English politician who served as the Member of Parliament for Tamworth from 1640 to 1642. Additionally, Merritt Wever is an American actress who won an Emmy Award for her role in the television series "Nurse Jackie".
Despite its historical significance and unique meaning, Meritt remains a relatively rare name today. According to data from the Social Security Administration, only seven girls were named Meritt in the United States in 2020. However, this uniqueness may make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Meritt since 1880
Total births
72
Total since 1880
Peak year
2016
10 births
in 2023
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+16%
↗
vs previous 5 years