Declining since 2019, #3,459 for girls today.
Popularity of Merci since 1963
Babies named Merci per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1960s | 25 | 0 |
| 1970s | 64 | 0 |
| 1980s | 46 | 0 |
| 1990s | 44 | 0 |
| 2000s | 161 | 0 |
| 2010s | 365 | 11 |
| 2020s | 286 | 53 |
Meaning & origin
Merci entered the U.S. naming pool in 1963, a recent addition compared to many traditional names. It saw a peak in 2019 at rank number 3,459, but as of 2025 the name is on a downward trajectory, falling in usage since that peak year. Approximately 1 in every 36,529 girls born in 2025 was named Merci, reflecting its rarity. The name is most commonly found in Georgia, according to Social Security data. As a direct borrowing of the French word for 'thanks,' Merci carries an international flair and a virtuous meaning of mercy, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful name.
Merci is directly derived from the French word for 'thanks' or 'mercy,' ultimately from Latin 'merces' meaning 'reward, favor.' It is occasionally used as a given name in English-speaking countries, often chosen for its virtuous quality and elegant sound. The name gained some popularity in the United States beginning in the 1960s.
Where Merci is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mer, Cee
Variants: Mercy
Sibling names for Merci
Names that share Merci's style, for a brother or sister.
