Holding steady.
Popularity of Meriel since 1916
Babies named Meriel per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 19 |
| 1920s | 36 |
| 1930s | 45 |
| 1940s | 26 |
| 1950s | 26 |
| 1960s | 10 |
| 1970s | 5 |
| 1980s | 41 |
| 1990s | 61 |
| 2000s | 82 |
| 2010s | 25 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Meriel is a rare and gentle name with an enduring appeal. First recorded in the U.S. in 1916, it reached its modest peak in 1934 when 9 baby girls received the name. Since then, it has maintained a very low but stable presence, never entering the top 1000. The name's meaning is tied to the sea, evoking imagery of brightness and coastal beauty. Despite its rarity, Meriel has a timeless quality that continues to attract parents seeking an uncommon yet melodic name. Its similarity to more familiar names like Muriel and Mariel may contribute to its quiet persistence. While it has not been concentrated in any particular region, its Cornish and Irish roots give it a subtle Celtic charm.
Meriel is a name of uncertain origin. It may be a Cornish name derived from 'mor' (sea) and 'iou' (bright), meaning 'bright sea'. Alternatively, it is sometimes considered a variant of Muriel, which is of Irish origin meaning 'sea bright' (muir 'sea' + geal 'bright'). The name has been used in English-speaking countries since at least the early 20th century, with a peak in usage during the 1930s.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Merry, Meri, Elle
Sibling names for Meriel
Names that share Meriel's style, for a brother or sister.
