Mercury - name meaning, origin

The boy's name Mercury \m(e)-rcu-

is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "commerce". In modern usage, the name is sometimes a nickname for fleet-footed runners. Mythology: the messenger of the Gods who corresponds to the Greek Hermes. Its ancient root also evolved into terms such as "merchant", "market", and "mercenary", showing the influence of the wing-footed Roman god of science and commerce, and the bustle of commercial life. A sixth-century priest named Mercury changed his name to John after he was elected to the papacy, since he felt it was inappropriate for a pope to have the name of a pagan god. Football player Mercury Morris.

Mercury has 3 variant forms: Mercure, Mercuree and Mercurey.

Mercury is an uncommon first name for men but a somewhat common last name for both men and women (#55488 out of 88799). (1990 U.S. Census)

Displayed below is the baby name popularity trend for the boy name Mercury. Compare Mercury with its variant forms and related boy names.