Maeve

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Maeve

Gender Girl
Origin Celtic
Letters 5
Syllables 2
Pronunciation MAYV

Maeve, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a female name of Celtic origin.

Meaning of Maeve

Goddess of song

Maeve is an Irish name meaning "she who intoxicates" or "intoxicating beauty." It is also associated with the legendary Irish warrior queen.

Save
Rate:
(3.3/5 from 6 votes)
Meaning Goddess of song
Origin Celtic
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #75 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Common (Top 100)
Era Modern (peaked 2023)

Background & History of The Name Maeve

The name Maeve is of Irish origin and derived from the Gaelic name "Medb," which means "intoxicating" or "she who intoxicates." It is a name rich in mythological and historical significance and has deep roots in Irish folklore. In Irish mythology, Queen Maeve was a powerful and fierce warrior queen of Connacht, known for her beauty, strength, and cunning. Her story is depicted in the famous epic tale "Táin Bó Cúailnge" (The Cattle Raid of Cooley), where she leads her army in a quest to capture the legendary Brown Bull of Cooley.

Maeve gained popularity as a given name in recent times, both in Ireland and around the world. It exudes a sense of strength and independence, reflecting the characteristics of the legendary queen. The name's appeal lies in its simplicity, elegance, and timeless nature. Maeve has a soft yet vibrant sound that resonates well across different cultures and languages.

Those named Maeve often inherit traits associated with their namesake: they tend to be bold, confident, and determined individuals. Additionally, they possess a strong sense of self and an unwavering ability to captivate and inspire those around them. Maeve has also become a preferred choice for parents looking for a unique and sophisticated name for their daughters. Its rise in popularity suggests the enduring charm and allure that Maeve holds for families looking for a name that is both meaningful and enchanting.

Overall, the name Maeve carries a rich history and evokes images of strength, beauty, and courage. Whether inspired by the ancient tales of Queen Maeve or simply drawn to its captivating sound, those who bear this name are destined to leave a lasting impression on the world.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Maeve over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials Maeve would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Maeve.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names