All about the name

Meryl

Male

« The feminine given name Meryl has Welsh origins, derived from 'meriol' meaning 'sea bright', and is associated with qualities like intelligence and creativity. »

#8336 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Meryl is a unique and beautiful feminine given name of Welsh origin. It is derived from the Welsh word "meriol", which means "sea bright". The name Meryl has a long history and has been used in Wales for centuries. In fact, it was popularized by the ancient Welsh bards, who were skilled poets and musicians. They often used names with positive meanings to reflect the qualities they admired in themselves or others. Thus, Meryl became associated with qualities such as intelligence, creativity, and brightness. The name Meryl has also been popularized by several notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous is Meryl Streep, the acclaimed American actress known for her versatile and powerful performances. While she was not named after the Welsh bardic tradition, her parents chose the name because they liked its sound and uniqueness. In recent years, the name Meryl has gained popularity as a unisex name, but it remains more commonly used as a feminine given name. It is often spelled in various ways, including Meryle, Meriol, and Meral, depending on regional preferences or personal preference. Overall, the name Meryl is a beautiful and meaningful choice for parents looking for a unique and historic name with a positive meaning. Its Welsh origins and association with intelligence and brightness make it an appealing option for those seeking a name that reflects their child's potential for greatness.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Meryl since 1880

Total births
431
Total since 1880
Peak year
1921
18 births
in 1967
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years