Merilee is a charming, unique given name of American origin. It is essentially a variation of the popular Irish name Muriel, with a more playful and contemporary sound. The name Merilee was popularized in the mid-20th century, particularly after its use in the stage musical "Brigadoon" (1947). In this context, it is often associated with whimsy, enchantment, and a touch of magic. While not as commonly used today as some other names, Merilee remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet appealing name for their daughter.
"The name Merilee had its peak popularity during the post-WWII baby boom, with a significant increase from 37 births in 1942 to 39 in 1946 and 31 in 1947. However, it quickly declined thereafter, dropping to just 5 births by 1987 and remaining low since then."