Merel

MEH-rel · of uncertain origin, possibly a variant of Merle, from the French word for 'blackbird'

Peak popularity

1926

Usually for

Boys

Trend

Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Merel since 1913

Babies named Merel per year in U.S. Social Security records.

GirlsBoys

Data table (by decade)

Decade	Girls	Boys
1910s	0	24
1920s	14	84
1930s	9	43
1940s	5	36
1950s	7	12
1960s	0	0
1970s	0	6
1980s	0	0
1990s	0	0
2000s	0	0
2010s	0	0
2020s	0	0

Meaning & origin

Merel is a rare Dutch name first recorded in the U.S. in 1913. Its peak year was 1926, when it saw its most frequent usage, though it has never ranked among the top names. The name's trajectory has been stable, with very few births per year. Its origins are uncertain but likely tied to the French word for 'blackbird', making it a unique choice with a subtle natural reference.

Merel is a Dutch given name that likely originated as a variant of Merle, which derives from the French word 'merle' meaning 'blackbird'. The name has been used in the Netherlands since the early 20th century, though it remains uncommon. It may also be a shortened form of names like Merelina.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Mer

Variants: Merle, Merell

Sibling names for Merel

Names that share Merel's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Linde, Fenna, Lotte, Sanne, Noa

Brothers: Jelle, Thijs, Bram, Wout, Daan

Questions parents ask

What does the name Merel mean?

The meaning of Merel is uncertain, but it is often considered a Dutch variant of Merle, from the French word for 'blackbird'.

How popular is the name Merel?

Merel is a rare name in the United States. According to Social Security data, it was first recorded in 1913 and peaked in 1926, but it has never ranked among the top 1000 names. Its usage has remained stable and very low since then.

Is Merel a boy or girl name?

Merel is primarily used for boys in the United States, though it is occasionally given to girls. In the Netherlands, it is more common for girls.