IPA Pronunciation

mɑːv

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Syllables

Meadhbh is an ancient Irish Gaelic name meaning "intoxicating" or "she who makes drunk." The name derives from Old Irish, often linked to the goddess Medb in Irish mythology, known as a powerful queen and warrior. It symbolizes strength, allure, and enchantment, reflecting the cultural importance of feminine power and sovereignty in early Irish lore.

Cultural Significance of Meadhbh

Meadhbh is deeply rooted in Irish mythology as the name of Queen Medb of Connacht, a central figure in the Ulster Cycle. She epitomized sovereignty and female strength, often portrayed as a warrior queen who defied traditional gender roles. The name carries connotations of leadership, courage, and enchantment, making it a symbol of Irish cultural heritage and feminine power through centuries.

Meadhbh Name Popularity in 2025

In recent decades, Meadhbh and its anglicized form Maeve have gained popularity beyond Ireland due to a global interest in Celtic culture and mythology. The name is favored for its strong, yet lyrical sound and rich historic roots. It is often chosen for its uniqueness and association with empowered femininity, appearing more frequently on baby name lists in English-speaking countries.

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Popular Nicknames8

MaeveMeaMeavyMaviMea-MeaMeabhieMeaBeeMae
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International Variations11

MaeveMeabhMeveMeaveMeavMaevMeadhaMebhMeidbhMeyvMeavh

Name Energy & Essence

The name Meadhbh carries the essence of “Intoxicating, she who makes drunk” from Irish Gaelic tradition. Names beginning with "M" often embody qualities of wisdom, intuition, and emotional depth.

Symbolism

Cultural Significance

Meadhbh is deeply rooted in Irish mythology as the name of Queen Medb of Connacht, a central figure in the Ulster Cycle. She epitomized sovereignty and female strength, often portrayed as a warrior queen who defied traditional gender roles. The name carries connotations of leadership, courage, and enchantment, making it a symbol of Irish cultural heritage and feminine power through centuries.

Queen Medb of Connacht

Mythological queen of Connacht, central figure in the Ulster Cycle famed for her power and the Cattle Raid of Cooley.

Medb ingen Indrechtach

Irish princess and queen in early medieval Ireland, known from genealogies and annals.

Meadhbh Ní Dhomhnaill

Modern Irish scholar and cultural historian specializing in Gaelic literature and folklore.

Medb Ní Mhaoilchiaráin

15th-century Irish noblewoman, known in historical records for her patronage of the arts.

Meadhbh Ní Bhriain

Prominent Irish poet and activist during the early 20th century cultural revival.

Medb Ua hEaghra

Medieval Irish noblewoman, recorded as a notable figure in regional politics.

Meadhbh Ní Chonchubhair

Irish historian and manuscript collector from the 18th century.

Medb Ní Thighearnáin

15th-century Irish noblewoman known for her influence in Ulster.

Parents: Keira Knightley and James Righton

Meadhbh

🌐Spanish

Meadhbh

🌐French

Meadhbh

🌐German

Meadhbh

🌐Italian

メーブ (Mēbu)

🌐Japanese

梅芙 (Méi fú)

🌐Chinese

ميف

🌐Arabic

Fun Fact About Meadhbh

Meadhbh was the name of a legendary Irish queen known for leading armies and famously initiating the Cattle Raid of Cooley, a mythic conflict immortalized in Irish literature.

Personality Traits for Meadhbh

Girls named Meadhbh are often imagined as charismatic, strong-willed, and independent. The name suggests a magnetic personality with leadership qualities and a creative mind. They might be seen as adventurous, confident, and charming, with a deep connection to their cultural roots and a natural ability to inspire others.

What does the name Meadhbh mean?

Meadhbh is a Irish Gaelic name meaning “Intoxicating, she who makes drunk”. Meadhbh is an ancient Irish Gaelic name meaning "intoxicating" or "she who makes drunk." The name derives from Old Irish, often linked to the goddess Medb in Irish mythology, known as a powerful queen and warrior. It symbolizes strength, allure, and enchantment, reflecting the cultural importance of feminine power and sovereignty in early Irish lore.

How do you pronounce Meadhbh?

Meadhbh is pronounced (IPA: mɑːv). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.

What are nicknames for Meadhbh?

Popular nicknames for Meadhbh include: Maeve, Mea, Meavy, Mavi, Mea-Mea, Meabhie, MeaBee, Mae.

Who are famous people named Meadhbh?

Famous people named Meadhbh include: , , , , .

Which celebrities named their baby Meadhbh?

Celebrity babies named Meadhbh include children of: Keira Knightley and James Righton.

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Meadhbh is a beautiful Irish Gaelic name meaning “Intoxicating, she who makes drunk”. Meadhbh is an ancient Irish Gaelic name meaning "intoxicating" or "she who makes drunk." The name derives from Old Irish, often linked to the goddess Medb in Irish mythology, known as a powerful queen...

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