Merrill Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Merrill come from? What does the surname Merrill mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Merrill and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Merrill Origin: What does the last name Merrill mean?
The surname Merrill has English origins and first appeared in records in the United Kingdom around the early 15th century. It has a history of being most frequently recorded in the UK from the 15th to the 16th century. However, by the early 17th century, there was a significant increase in Merrill family records in the United States, indicating a shift in prevalence to the US during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the Merrill surname continues to be well-represented in the United States, with a likely spread to other countries as well.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Merrill surname in the United Kingdom since the early 15th century. The surname's expansion continued into the United States during the 17th century, and it has likely spread to other countries over time. While specific global data may not be available, the Merrill surname has maintained a strong presence in the United States and potentially in other regions, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread distribution.
Merrill Last Name History: Where did the last name Merrill come from?
Origin of Merrill Surname: Where does the last name Merrill originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Merrill first appeared in records from the United Kingdom around the early 15th century. This indicates the earliest known usage of the Merrill surname in our database. Please note this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Merrill” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Merrill: What does the Merrill surname history look like in the early days?
The “Merrill” surname was most frequently recorded in the United Kingdom from the 15th century through the 16th century. However, by the early 17th century, the volume of Merrill family records showed a significant increase in the United States. This trend continued through the 18th and 19th centuries, suggesting that the Merrill surname had become more prevalent in the United States during these periods. YourRoots data does not provide specific additional countries during this early growth period.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Merrill surname today?
Continuing into the 20th century, the Merrill surname continues to be well-represented in the United States. While YourRoots data does not provide a comprehensive list of countries where the Merrill surname is found today, its presence in the United States is significantly documented. However, considering the origin and early growth patterns of the Merrill surname, it is likely that it has spread to other countries as well.
Explore Merrill last name heritage and Merrill surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Merrill Surame?
Jackson Merrill
Jackson Peter Merrill (April 19, 2003 - ) is an American professional baseball center fielder for the San Diego Padres of Major League Baseball. He made his MLB debut in 2024 and was selected for the 2024 MLB All-Star Game. Merrill was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and attended Severna Park High School. He originally committed to the Army Black Knights for college baseball but later changed to the Kentucky Wildcats. Merrill has had a successful career in the minor leagues before joining the Padres, where he signed a lucrative contract extension in 2025.
Dina Merrill
Dina Merrill (Nedenia Marjorie Hutton; December 29, 1923 – May 22, 2017) was an American actress known for her roles in various films and television shows spanning from the late 1950s to the 2000s. She came from a prestigious background as the daughter of Post Cereals heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post and Wall Street stockbroker Edward Francis Hutton. Merrill's career included appearances in popular movies like "Butterfield 8" and "Caddyshack II," as well as guest roles on TV series such as "Batman" and "Murder, She Wrote." In addition to her acting career, Merrill was involved in business ventures and held positions on various boards related to the performing arts. She passed away at the age of 93 due to Lewy Body Dementia.
Gary Merrill
Gary Fred Merrill (August 2, 1915 – March 5, 1990) was an American actor known for his roles in over 50 feature films and TV series. He starred in classics like "All About Eve" and had recurring roles in shows like "Justice" and "Then Came Bronson." Merrill also appeared in the Elvis Presley film "Clambake." Aside from his acting career, he was politically active, supporting causes like Black voter registration and opposing the Vietnam War. Merrill's personal life included marriages to actresses Barbara Leeds and Bette Davis. He wrote an autobiography before his death in 1990.
Charles E. Merrill
Charles Edward Merrill (Oct 19, 1885 – Oct 6, 1956) was an American philanthropist and stockbroker who co-founded Merrill Lynch, a major investment banking firm. He played a key role in the 1926 merger that created the Safeway food chain and anticipated the stock market crash of 1929. Merrill focused on making investing accessible to the average American and held seminars for couples to learn about investing together. Known for his extravagant lifestyle, Merrill's children went on to achieve success in various fields, including education, philanthropy, and poetry. His legacy continues through the institutions and foundations he helped establish.
Robert Merrill
Robert Merrill (June 4, 1917 – October 23, 2004) was an American operatic baritone and actor known for his performances at the Metropolitan Opera. Merrill's vocal talent was recognized early on, leading him to receive the National Medal of Arts in 1993. He made significant contributions to the world of opera, recording famous works like "La traviata" and "Carmen" with renowned artists. Merrill's career spanned radio, recordings, and even musical theatre, showcasing his versatility and passion for music. His legacy as a talented baritone and performer continues to inspire opera enthusiasts worldwide.
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