Merry

Merry is an English adjective meaning cheerful, lively, or festive. It is used in phrases such as make merry and in greetings like Merry Christmas, signaling joy or celebration.

Its roots lie in Old English, and it has long described a pleasant, jovial state. Over time, the word has expanded beyond mood to appear in names and cultural references.

As a given name, Merry has appeared in English-speaking countries, especially for women. Notable individuals include the American soul singer Merry Clayton.

In fiction, the nickname Merry is borne by Meriadoc Brandybuck, a hobbit who accompanies the Fellowship in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings.

As a surname, Merry is relatively rare, with few documented bearers.