Find out how popular the first name Melrose has been for the last 18 years (from 2006 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Melrose by gender

Based on the last 18 years of data, Melrose is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 38 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Melrose.

The history of the first name Melrose

The name Melrose is of Scottish origin, derived from the Old English words "melr" meaning "a place of sandstone or sandy soil" and "rose" meaning a rose bush or flower. It is believed to have originated as a place name in the Scottish Borders region, referring to the town of Melrose.

The first recorded use of the name Melrose can be traced back to the 12th century, when it was used to refer to the town and its famous Cistercian abbey, Melrose Abbey. The abbey was founded in 1136 and became an important center of religious and cultural activity in Scotland during the Middle Ages.

One of the earliest known individuals with the name Melrose was Melrose of Caithness, a Scottish nobleman who lived in the 13th century. He was a prominent figure in the Scottish Wars of Independence against England and fought alongside William Wallace and Robert the Bruce.

Another notable figure with the name Melrose was Sir Melrose of Strathearn, a 14th-century Scottish knight who played a significant role in the Battle of Neville's Cross in 1346. He was captured by the English during the battle and later ransomed.

In the 16th century, Melrose became a popular surname in Scotland, particularly in the Borders region. One notable individual with the surname was Andrew Melville (1545-1622), a Scottish scholar, theologian, and leader of the Presbyterian Church in Scotland.

The name Melrose also appears in literature, most notably in Sir Walter Scott's novel "The Monastery" (1820), which is set in the vicinity of Melrose Abbey. The novel's protagonist, a young woman named Melrose, is portrayed as a symbol of innocence and purity.

Other famous individuals with the name Melrose throughout history include:

1. Melrose Bickerstaff (1914-2008), an American author and journalist.
2. Melrose Plant (1920-2012), a British artist and sculptor.
3. Melrose Cranner (1933-2012), an Australian politician and member of the New South Wales Legislative Council.
4. Melrose Buchanan (1942-2017), a Scottish singer and songwriter.
5. Melrose Cooper (1958-), an American actress and model.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Melrose was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Melrose, please contact us.

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