Mercer
Mercer is a boy's name of English origin.
Meaning
Merchant or merchant of fine fabrics.
Origin and history
Mercer originated as an English occupational surname derived from Old French, referring to a merchant or trader in fine fabrics. Historically rare as a given name, it has seen a mild increase in U.S. usage in recent years as occupational surname-names have grown in popularity. It offers a stylish, classic feel similar to names like Carter or Parker.
Popularity in the United States
1,345 babies in the United States have been named Mercer since 1880. It ranks #3365 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1695.
States where it is most popular
- GA (59.4 %)
- CA (14.4 %)
- TX (12.5 %)
- WA (10.6 %)
- NC (3.1 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 10 |
| 1890-1900 | 6 |
| 1900-1910 | 6 |
| 1910-1920 | 98 |
| 1920-1930 | 162 |
| 1930-1940 | 78 |
| 1940-1950 | 100 |
| 1950-1960 | 75 |
| 1960-1970 | 48 |
| 1970-1980 | 19 |
| 1980-1990 | 6 |
| 1990-2000 | 42 |
| 2000-2010 | 155 |
| 2010-2019 | 308 |
| 2020-2029 | 232 |
Famous people named Mercer
- Mercer Ellington: Musician, Composer
Fun facts
- The name stems from the Old French word 'mercier', which referred specifically to a trader in textiles or dry goods.
- Like Cooper and Mason, Mercer fits the modern American trend of turning classic trade surnames into first names.