Holding steady, #10,917 for girls today.
Popularity of Melanye since 1955
Babies named Melanye per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 18 |
| 1960s | 20 |
| 1970s | 15 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 9 |
| 2000s | 129 |
| 2010s | 92 |
| 2020s | 21 |
Meaning & origin
Melanye is a modern respelling of the classic name Melanie, first recorded in the U.S. in 1955. It experienced a peak in popularity in 2006, when it ranked highest among all years, though overall it has remained a rare choice. In 2025, the name sits at rank 10,917 with a frequency of about 1 in 200,908 girls, reflecting a stable but uncommon usage pattern. The variant spelling with a 'y' likely aims to add a contemporary flair while retaining the familiar sound of Melanie.
Melanye is a modern spelling variant of Melanie, which comes from the Greek word 'melania' (μέλαινα) meaning 'black, dark'. The name was popularized in the English-speaking world through French influence, with Melanie becoming common in the 20th century. Melanye represents a respelling that emerged in the mid-20th century, first recorded in 1955, and saw its peak popularity in 2006.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mel, Lanie
Sibling names for Melanye
Names that share Melanye's style, for a brother or sister.

