Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Merril

      Origin 
      English

      Meaning 
      Shining Sea or Sea Brave

      Variations 
      Merrill, Merrily, Merrile

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Merril is derived from the English language, with roots meaning Shining Sea or Sea Brave. It is often associated with a sense of adventure and strength, reflecting the majesty and mystery of the ocean. The elements of the name suggest qualities of resilience and brightness, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with a strong, positive connotation.

      Historically, names like Merril have been documented in various forms throughout English-speaking cultures. The name can trace its origins back to both Anglo-Saxon and Old French influences, where it was sometimes spelled as Merrill. Over the centuries, it has appeared in literature and genealogical records, serving not only as a given name but also as a surname. Prominent individuals throughout history who carried the name have further contributed to its recognition.

      In contemporary times, Merril continues to be used as a first name, though it remains relatively uncommon compared to more popular names. Its usage can be found across various cultures, often chosen for its unique sound and meaningful origin. Merril is also sometimes employed in fictional works, adding a layer of intrigue to characters and helping to maintain its relevance in modern society.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Merril.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Merril.

      Elizabeth

      is the most common spouse name for Merril.

      William

      is the most common child name for Merril.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1910 is when there were the most people born with the first name Merril.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.