Merrilee is a unique and charming female given name of American origin. It was coined by writer and poet Ogden Nash, who named his daughter Merrilee Nash in the mid-20th century. The name is believed to be a blend of "Merrie" meaning cheerful or joyful, and "Lee," which can serve as a short form of names like Leila or Melisande. However, it is important to note that this etymology is not universally accepted, and the true origin of Merrilee remains somewhat mysterious. Despite its unclear origins, Merrilee has gained popularity as a given name in its own right, particularly in the United States. It is often associated with a bright, lively, and cheerful persona due to its components' meanings.
"The name Merrilee peaked in popularity between the late 1940s and early 1950s, with a total of 1,264 births recorded during this period. After that, its usage significantly declined over the years."