The name Meryl is a relatively modern name that emerged in the 20th century. It is believed to be a variant spelling of the name Muriel, which is derived from the Greek word "myrrha," meaning "myrrh," a fragrant resin used in perfumes and incense.

The name Meryl gained popularity in the United States and other English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century. While its exact origins are unclear, it is speculated that the name may have been influenced by the popularity of the American actress Meryl Streep, who rose to fame in the late 1970s and 1980s.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Meryl can be found in the 1930s. Meryl Frost, an American author and journalist, was born in 1922 and is known for her work on the history of Hawaii.

Another notable figure with the name Meryl is Meryl Goldsmith, a South African-born actress and singer who gained recognition in the 1960s and 1970s for her performances in various musicals and plays.

In the field of sports, Meryl Davis is an American ice dancer who, along with her partner Charlie White, won the gold medal in the ice dance event at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

Meryl Tankard is an Australian choreographer and dancer who has made significant contributions to the world of contemporary dance. She was born in 1959 and has created numerous acclaimed works for companies around the globe.

The name Meryl has also been used in literature, with Meryl Streep's character in the novel and film "The Bridges of Madison County" being a notable example.

While the name Meryl may have originated as a variant spelling of Muriel, it has since established its own identity and continues to be used as a given name, particularly in English-speaking countries.