All about the name
Merry
Female
« Merry is a rare English female name derived from the Middle English word "meri", meaning joyous or happy. It was often used as a nickname for cheerful people in the 13th century and has been associated with positivity throughout history, including its use by J.R.R. Tolkien in his epic fantasy series "The Lord of the Rings". »
#10147
last year
Meaning, origin, history
Merry is a unique and distinctive female given name of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English word "meri", which means joyous or happy. The name Merry has been used in various forms throughout history, including Merie, Merrie, and Marri.
The use of Merry as a given name can be traced back to the 13th century, where it was often used as a nickname for people who were cheerful or lively. It is also associated with the Middle English phrase "merry as a cricket", which means to be very happy or contented.
In literature, the name Merry has been used by several notable authors. For example, J.R.R. Tolkien used Merry (full name: Meriadoc Brandybuck) as one of the main characters in his epic fantasy series "The Lord of the Rings". This usage has contributed to the popularity of the name in recent years.
Today, Merry remains a rare but memorable name choice for parents looking for something unique and meaningful for their daughter. It is associated with joy, happiness, and positivity, making it an attractive option for those who want their child's name to reflect these qualities. Overall, Merry is a distinctive and historic female given name that carries a lot of meaning and character behind it.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Merry since 1880
Total births
10,344
Total since 1880
Peak year
1954
355 births
in 2023
10
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-17%
↘
vs previous 5 years