Declining since 2018, #1,183 for boys today.
Popularity of Merrick since 1905
Babies named Merrick per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1900s | 0 | 5 |
| 1910s | 0 | 46 |
| 1920s | 0 | 69 |
| 1930s | 0 | 52 |
| 1940s | 0 | 120 |
| 1950s | 0 | 163 |
| 1960s | 5 | 172 |
| 1970s | 0 | 241 |
| 1980s | 61 | 205 |
| 1990s | 41 | 463 |
| 2000s | 159 | 1,175 |
| 2010s | 152 | 1,899 |
| 2020s | 101 | 1,182 |
Meaning & origin
Merrick is a name of uncertain but intriguing origin, possibly rooted in both Welsh and English traditions. It has been in use since the early 20th century, with a first recorded occurrence in 1905, and has experienced modest popularity over the decades. The name peaked in 2018, but has since been in decline, as seen in its 2025 rank of 1183. Geographic data from the Social Security Administration shows that Merrick is especially popular in Utah, Colorado, and Washington, suggesting a particular appeal in western states. Despite its declining trend, Merrick remains a distinctive choice with historical depth.
Merrick likely derives from the Old Welsh name Meurig (Latinized as Mauritius, meaning 'dark-skinned' or 'Moorish'), or from the Old English elements 'mære' (famous) and 'wīc' (dwelling place, battle). The name was historically borne by a Welsh saint, Saint Meurig, and later adopted in English-speaking countries as a surname and given name. It has seen modest usage in the United States since the early 20th century.
Where Merrick is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Merrick” around the world
Where Merrick lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mer, Rick, Ricky
Sibling names for Merrick
Names that share Merrick's style, for a brother or sister.
