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Merle

Girl name · 3 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Merle: 3 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 3 births in 1981.

The name Merle has French and Germanic roots, meaning “blackbird” – a reference to the songbird’s dark plumage and melodic call. In Scotland it has occasionally been used as a variant of Muriel, though the bird connection remains the most common origin for English speakers. Notable bearers include American country legend Merle Haggard and Oscar-nominated actress Merle Oberon. No major places directly share the name, but the etymology links it to the French merle and Latin merula, echoing the bird itself. A further note: Merle enjoyed modest popularity in the early 20th century as a unisex name, and today it can feel both vintage and nature-inspired, making it a quietly distinctive choice.