Ames vs Merritt

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Popularity Comparison

Ames Rank #2,018
Merritt Rank #1,411

Merritt is more popular, ranked #1411 vs #2018 for Ames.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Ames ___

  • Ames River
  • Ames Cole
  • Ames James
  • Ames Elliott
  • Ames Harrison
  • Ames Grey

Merritt ___

  • Merritt Lane
  • Merritt James
  • Merritt Grace
  • Merritt Claire
  • Merritt Elise
  • Merritt Lee

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Ames

Hayes Brooks Reeve Sloane Greer

If you choose Merritt

Quinn Sloane Blake Finley Scout

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ames or Merritt more popular?

Merritt is more popular, ranked #1411 compared to Ames at #2018 in the United States.

What do Ames and Merritt mean?

Ames means "friend" (Old French origin). Merritt means "boundary gate" (Old English origin).

Are Ames and Merritt boy or girl names?

Ames is primarily a boy name. Merritt is primarily a girl name.

More Comparisons

Merritt vs Ames Ames vs Marlin Ames vs Damion Ames vs Elion Ames vs Freddie
← Full profile: Ames ← Full profile: Merritt Browse all baby names