IPA Pronunciation

meɪ

Say It Like

May

Syllables

1

monosyllabic

Mae is a variant of the name May, which originated as a given name inspired by the month of May, itself named after Maia, the Roman goddess of spring and growth. The name Mae conveys freshness, vitality, and the blossoming nature of spring, symbolizing youth, beauty, and new beginnings.

Cultural Significance of Mae

Mae holds a special place in English-speaking cultures as a name that evokes the beauty of spring and femininity. It gained popularity in the early 20th century, partly due to iconic figures like Mae West, and continues to be cherished for its vintage charm.

Mae Name Popularity in 2025

Today, Mae has seen a resurgence as a chosen name for girls, appreciated for its simplicity and classic appeal. It fits well with the trend of short, sweet, and vintage names making a comeback in contemporary baby naming.

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Popular Nicknames5

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International Variations11

MayMaeveMaiaMayaMeyMaiMeyahMaieMayeMeyveMaey

Similar Names You Might Love11

Name Energy & Essence

The name Mae carries the essence of “Variant of May, associated with the month of May and springtime.” from English tradition. Names beginning with "M" often embody qualities of wisdom, intuition, and emotional depth.

Symbolism

Mae symbolizes spring, renewal, femininity, and youthful vitality. It is often associated with freshness, growth, and beauty in bloom, reflecting the spirit of the month of May.

Cultural Significance

Mae holds a special place in English-speaking cultures as a name that evokes the beauty of spring and femininity. It gained popularity in the early 20th century, partly due to iconic figures like Mae West, and continues to be cherished for its vintage charm.

Connection to Nature

Mae connects its bearer to the natural world, embodying the variant of may, associated with the month of may and springtime. and its timeless qualities of growth, resilience, and beauty.

Mae Jemison

Science and Space Exploration

Mae Jemison broke barriers in space exploration and continues to inspire future generations in STEM fields.

  • First African-American woman astronaut to travel in space (1992)
  • Physician and engineer
  • Educator and advocate for science education

Mae West

Entertainment

Mae West became a cultural icon for her unapologetic personality and contributions to film and theater.

  • Pioneering American actress, singer, playwright, and sex symbol
  • Known for her bold and witty persona
  • Influential figure in early Hollywood cinema

Mudbound ()

Florence Jackson (nickname Mae)

A strong-willed woman navigating racial tensions in post-WWII Mississippi.

Walking Dead ()

Mae

Minor character appearing in the post-apocalyptic drama series.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower ()

Mae

A supportive friend in this coming-of-age story.

Mayo (month), Mae (name)

🇪🇸spanish

Mai (mois), Mae (nom)

🇫🇷french

Maggio (mese), Mae (nome)

🇮🇹italian

Mai (Monat), Mae (Name)

🇩🇪german

メイ (Mei)

🇯🇵japanese

梅 (Méi)

🇨🇳chinese

مي (May)

🇸🇦arabic

מאי (May)

🇮🇱hebrew

Fun Fact About Mae

Mae West, one of the most famous actresses bearing the name, was known for her witty double entendres and bold personality, making Mae synonymous with charm and confidence.

Personality Traits for Mae

Individuals named Mae often exude warmth, charm, and a timeless elegance. They are perceived as gentle yet strong, with a creative and nurturing spirit that draws others in.

What does the name Mae mean?

Mae is a English name meaning “Variant of May, associated with the month of May and springtime.”. Mae is a variant of the name May, which originated as a given name inspired by the month of May, itself named after Maia, the Roman goddess of spring and growth. The name Mae conveys freshness, vitality, and the blossoming nature of spring, symbolizing youth, beauty, and new beginnings.

How do you pronounce Mae?

Mae is pronounced May (IPA: meɪ). It has 1 syllables with the pattern monosyllabic.

What are nicknames for Mae?

Popular nicknames for Mae include: Mae-Mae, May, Maisie, Maz, Mimi.

Who are famous people named Mae?

Famous people named Mae include: Mae Jemison, Mae West, Mae Whitman, Mae Murray.

Hello dear readers! Today, let's cozy up and talk about one of my absolute favorite names: Mae. It's a name that feels like a gentle spring breeze, simple yet timeless, and every time I hear it, it brings a smile to my face. As someone who's been a baby name enthusiast for years, I've come across countless beautiful names, but Mae holds a special place in my heart. Join me as I share what makes Mae so enchanting—from its origins and meanings to famous bearers and its lovely presence in pop culture.

The Meaning and Origin of Mae Mae is a sweet variant of the name May, directly linked to the month of May, which itself is named after Maia, the Roman goddess associated with spring and growth. Think of Mae as a whisper of springtime—symbolizing new beginnings, warmth, and blooming flowers. This name carries with it a sense of freshness and vitality that's simply beautiful. It's English in origin but carries a classic feel that transcends borders.

Personal Anecdotes and Observations I remember meeting a little girl named Mae a few years ago at a family gathering. She was full of life, with a bright smile and an infectious laugh that lit up the room. It struck me how perfectly the name suited her—light, joyful, and effortlessly elegant. Since then, whenever I hear the name Mae, I picture someone with a warm heart and a timeless charm.

Historical Figures Named Mae Mae is not just a charming name; it has been borne by some incredible women who left their mark on history. Mae West, for instance, was a trailblazer in Hollywood known for her wit and bold personality. She challenged societal norms and became an enduring symbol of confidence and independence.

Then there's Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman astronaut to travel into space, whose achievements inspire countless young women in science and beyond. Mae Marsh, a silent film actress from the early 20th century, also carried the name with grace, contributing significantly to the foundation of American cinema.

Celebrities and Pop Culture Influence In modern times, Mae Whitman brings the name to life on screen with roles in beloved shows like "Arrested Development" and "Parenthood," while Mae Questel enchanted audiences as the voice behind iconic characters like Betty Boop.

The name Mae also pops up in movies and TV shows, adding a touch of softness and strength to characters in "Mudbound," "The Perks of Being a Wallflower," and even "The Walking Dead." It’s a name that feels familiar yet unique, making it a favorite among writers and creators.

Fun Facts and Trivia Did you know that Mae West’s sharp quips and double entendres made her a cultural icon whose influence is still felt today? Or that Mae Jemison’s journey into space broke barriers and paved the way for diversity in STEM fields? These stories add layers of depth to the name Mae, making it more than just a pretty word.

Modern Usage and Trends In recent years, Mae has seen a lovely resurgence among parents who appreciate vintage names with simple elegance. It fits perfectly with the trend of short, sweet names that feel both classic and fresh. Whether used on its own or as a charming middle name, Mae continues to captivate hearts.

Why Mae Is So Special What I love most about Mae is its versatility. It's both understated and distinctive, carrying a rich history and a soft, melodic sound. It's the kind of name that feels personal and warm, like a comforting hug or a breath of fresh air.

To me, Mae is more than a name—it's an embrace of spring’s hope, a nod to strong women who shaped history, and a timeless choice that will continue to shine for generations. If you’re considering names for a little one or simply adore names that tell a story, Mae is truly a gem worth cherishing.

Thank you for joining me on this delightful journey through the world of Mae. Until next time, keep celebrating the beautiful stories behind every name!