Melford is a distinctive and uncommon male given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English words 'mael', meaning ' chief' or 'prince', and 'ford', which refers to a river crossing. Thus, the name Melford can be interpreted as 'chief at the ford'. Historically, it has been used as a surname, but in more recent times, it has also been employed as a given name. The use of Melford as a first name appears to have started in the 20th century and remains relatively uncommon today, making it a unique choice for parents seeking an unusual yet meaningful name for their child. It is important to note that while Melford is often associated with Suffolk, England, due to its use as a surname there, it is not exclusive to that region or county. Instead, it can be found among people of various backgrounds and locations around the world.
"Melford saw a significant peak in births in 1921 with 46 newborns, and again in 1937 with 30 births. However, from the mid-1950s onwards, the number of annual births consistently dropped below double digits, reaching as low as 5 in some years."