Merlin
Merlin is a boy's name of Celtic origin.
Meaning
Sea fortress or sea hill.
Origin and history
Merlin is a masculine name derived from the Welsh name Myrddin, traditionally interpreted as meaning sea fortress or sea hill. It is most famous as the name of the legendary wizard in Arthurian tradition. In the United States, it has enjoyed steady, moderate usage since the late nineteenth century.
Popularity in the United States
15,049 babies in the United States have been named Merlin since 1880. It ranks #967 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1563.
States where it is most popular
- WI (14.4 %)
- IA (12.9 %)
- MN (8.5 %)
- LA (8.4 %)
- OH (6.3 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 14 |
| 1890-1900 | 42 |
| 1900-1910 | 145 |
| 1910-1920 | 1,492 |
| 1920-1930 | 3,322 |
| 1930-1940 | 2,963 |
| 1940-1950 | 2,060 |
| 1950-1960 | 1,574 |
| 1960-1970 | 894 |
| 1970-1980 | 533 |
| 1980-1990 | 407 |
| 1990-2000 | 391 |
| 2000-2010 | 443 |
| 2010-2019 | 404 |
| 2020-2029 | 365 |
Famous people named Merlin
- Merlin Olsen: Football Player, Actor
Fun facts
- Geoffrey of Monmouth adapted the Welsh legendary figure Myrddin into the Latinized name Merlinus, which became Merlin.
- Merlin is also the common name for a small species of falcon (Falco columbarius).