Mel Unisex
Origin(s)
PronunciationMEL / mɛlEnglish; Hebrew
Meaning
Hebrew: messenger of God; English: short form of names like Melvin
Historical & Cultural Background
Mel is often used as a diminutive for names such as Melvin or Melinda. In English-speaking countries, it has gained popularity as a standalone name. The name has also been associated with various cultural figures and media representations. Its use as a boy's name is less common than as a girl's name, particularly in the case of Melinda.
Trend Summary
The name Mel has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, often peaking in the mid-20th century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Melvin
- Melton
International Variants
- Noé (French)
- Mele (Hawaiian)
Famous people named Mel
Mel Brooks is an American filmmaker, actor, and comedian known for his work in comedy films such as 'Blazing Saddles' and 'The Producers'.
Mel Gibson is an Australian-American actor and filmmaker recognized for his roles in films like 'Braveheart' and 'Mad Max'.
Mel Tormé was an American singer, songwriter, and actor, famous for his contributions to jazz music.
Fictional characters named Mel
Mel is a character in the animated series 'The Lion Guard', serving as a member of the Lion Guard.
Mel is a character in the video game series 'Final Fantasy', known for various roles throughout the franchise.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Mel was first seen in the United States in 1902. Mel has ranked as high as #1001 nationally, which occurred in 1958, and has been most popular in California, New York, Illinois, Ohio, and Michigan. In the past 5 years the name Mel has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Mel (2006)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| FL | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1902 | 5 |
| 1903 | 5 |
| 1904 | 7 |
| 1911 | 10 |
| 1912 | 5 |
| 1913 | 5 |
| 1914 | 10 |
| 1915 | 13 |
| 1916 | 13 |
| 1917 | 8 |
| 1918 | 16 |
| 1919 | 14 |
| 1920 | 14 |
| 1921 | 7 |
| 1922 | 19 |
| 1923 | 13 |
| 1924 | 12 |
| 1925 | 12 |
| 1926 | 25 |
| 1927 | 24 |
| 1928 | 14 |
| 1929 | 11 |
| 1930 | 18 |
| 1931 | 21 |
| 1932 | 31 |
| 1933 | 20 |
| 1934 | 40 |
| 1935 | 26 |
| 1936 | 43 |
| 1937 | 43 |
| 1938 | 61 |
| 1939 | 52 |
| 1940 | 67 |
| 1941 | 62 |
| 1942 | 80 |
| 1943 | 71 |
| 1944 | 59 |
| 1945 | 67 |
| 1946 | 86 |
| 1947 | 98 |
| 1948 | 71 |
| 1949 | 70 |
| 1950 | 67 |
| 1951 | 54 |
| 1952 | 78 |
| 1953 | 94 |
| 1954 | 84 |
| 1955 | 69 |
| 1956 | 93 |
| 1957 | 91 |
| 1958 | 119 |
| 1959 | 94 |
| 1960 | 98 |
| 1961 | 102 |
| 1962 | 79 |
| 1963 | 64 |
| 1964 | 82 |
| 1965 | 66 |
| 1966 | 63 |
| 1967 | 51 |
| 1968 | 35 |
| 1969 | 47 |
| 1970 | 36 |
| 1971 | 30 |
| 1972 | 35 |
| 1973 | 20 |
| 1974 | 27 |
| 1975 | 32 |
| 1976 | 31 |
| 1977 | 17 |
| 1978 | 22 |
| 1979 | 16 |
| 1980 | 26 |
| 1981 | 14 |
| 1982 | 19 |
| 1983 | 11 |
| 1984 | 11 |
| 1985 | 10 |
| 1986 | 9 |
| 1987 | 13 |
| 1988 | 13 |
| 1989 | 17 |
| 1990 | 16 |
| 1991 | 13 |
| 1992 | 12 |
| 1993 | 13 |
| 1994 | 12 |
| 1995 | 14 |
| 1996 | 21 |
| 1997 | 12 |
| 1998 | 11 |
| 1999 | 17 |
| 2000 | 12 |
| 2001 | 12 |
| 2002 | 12 |
| 2003 | 22 |
| 2004 | 16 |
| 2005 | 11 |
| 2006 | 18 |
| 2007 | 14 |
| 2008 | 13 |
| 2009 | 7 |
| 2010 | 11 |
| 2011 | 10 |
| 2012 | 5 |
| 2013 | 7 |
| 2014 | 6 |
| 2016 | 12 |
| 2017 | 6 |
| 2018 | 10 |
| 2019 | 7 |
| 2020 | 7 |
| 2021 | 9 |
| 2022 | 9 |
| 2023 | 10 |
| 2024 | 9 |