Declining since 2005, #9,457 for girls today.
Popularity of Merari since 1953
Babies named Merari per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 5 |
| 1960s | 5 |
| 1970s | 68 |
| 1980s | 96 |
| 1990s | 256 |
| 2000s | 526 |
| 2010s | 292 |
| 2020s | 101 |
Meaning & origin
Merari is a rare and distinctive name with biblical roots. First recorded in the United States in 1953, it peaked in popularity in 2004, though it has been on a declining trajectory since 2005. In 2022, approximately 1 in 160,727 newborn girls were named Merari, ranking it 9457th. The name carries an air of antiquity and simplicity, appealing to parents seeking an uncommon but recognizable choice. Its dual Hebrew and Spanish heritages add depth, as it can be seen as both a biblical marker and a nature-inspired name via the 'blackbird' connection. Though obscure, Merari has a pleasing sound and a strong historical backdrop.
Merari appears in the Hebrew Bible as the name of the third son of Levi, making it a traditional biblical name. In Spanish-speaking contexts, it is used as a feminine name, likely derived from Latin 'meraria' meaning 'blackbird' or as a variant of María. The name has been in occasional use in the United States since the mid-20th century, though it remains rare.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mera, Rari
Sibling names for Merari
Names that share Merari's style, for a brother or sister.
