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MER-lin · 2 syllables
↑ Higher on this chart = more popular · ↓ Lower = less popular
Bars show the range of popularity for each group. The dot shows where this name sits. Further right = more popular.
Rank #2083 · Rising since 2020
Popularity score: 23 · SSA Rank: #2083
Rank #8241 · Falling since 2020
Popularity score: 9 · SSA Rank: #8241
Rare · Distinctive · Familiar · Common · Very Common
Popularity score: 0 = least popular, 100 = most popular. Based on SSA rank.
Merlin is surging in popularity right now.
Scores are percentile-ranked across 43,000+ names.
This name follows the classic name-fashion pattern — popularity rises and falls through social diffusion, the way most names do.
Source: Namesake null-model analysis · Phase 5 · Lieberson (2000) framework →
Qualities shared by notable Merlins
Merlin is a Celtic unisex name with upward momentum in SSA rankings. It ranked #2083 in the US in 2024.
Notable Merlins
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Still deciding?
Every naming product helps you find names. Namesake is the only one built to help you choose one.
Score what matters to you. Run names head-to-head. Arrive at the one name you can both explain and defend.
Start the Name Wizard →