Merle

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Merle

Merle is an English boy name, which has 5 letters.

Merle is a French name derived from the Latin word "Merula," meaning blackbird. As a given name, Merle is typically used for both genders and can mean "fame, light, or blackbird."

Pronuncation murl

Alternate Meaning Falcon

Origin or Current Usage English

Gender M

Rating

Log in to save this name to your favorites.

What to Expect When You're Expecting

Buy On Amazon

The Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide for Dads-to-Be

Buy On Amazon

Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide

Buy On Amazon

Mayo Clinic Guide to Your Baby's First Years

Buy On Amazon

Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy

Buy On Amazon
These are affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Detailed Information About The Name Merle

The name 'Merle' has historical roots and can be found in various cultures. It is derived from the Old French word "merle," meaning blackbird. In French, 'Merle' specifically refers to a male blackbird, while the female blackbird is called 'Merlette.' The name gained popularity as a given name during the 19th century, particularly in France and other European countries.

In addition to its avian association, 'Merle' has different meanings across cultures. In German, for example, it translates to "bright sea" and is often used as a variant of the name Merlin. In Scandinavia, it can be a short form of 'Merton,' which means "fortified town." In the United States, 'Merle' has been used as a unisex name, primarily for boys, although it is more commonly associated with males due to its French origins.

'Merle' has also gained recognition through notable individuals who bear the name. One such example is the American country music singer Merle Haggard, who had a significant influence on the genre. His successful career spanned several decades, earning him numerous awards and accolades. Haggard's popularity further contributed to the visibility and recognition of the name 'Merle.'

Overall, the name 'Merle' carries a rich historical and cultural background. Its associations with birds, nature, and historic figures make it a unique and meaningful choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their child.

Similar English Baby Names

Search Baby Names & Meanings

Search our growing database of baby names to find just the right name for your baby or to find out what your own name means!

Celebrity Baby Names

Celebrity baby names are usually not conventional, but some of them become popular. Here is our growing list of celebrity baby names.

Celebrity Baby Names

Naming Your Baby

Picking a name is one of the most important things you will do for your child, so why not take some time to look through our collection of baby naming resources.

Naming Your Baby

Unusual Baby Names

Unique or unusual baby names are tempting when it is time to name your child; however, you should also be aware of the pitfalls that a unique name might have.

Unusual Baby Names

Biblical Baby Names

Biblical names are some of the most widely used names, and for good reason. The tradition and history behind these names makes them a great choice!

Biblical Baby Names

Types of Baby Names

The baby name collection on this site is constantly evolving, and a good way to browse through our database is selecting the type of name you are interested in.

Types of Baby Names