Maeve is a female name of Irish origin that may mean “she who intoxicates,” “mead-woman,” or “she who rules.” Parents browsing through a guide to baby name meanings often appreciate this moniker for its brisk sound and deep roots in ancient legend. While it has existed for centuries across Ireland, it has gained substantial attention in American nurseries over recent years. Its blend of classic charm, mythological strength, and simple spelling makes it an appealing choice for families seeking a heritage name with modern appeal.
Meaning and Origin
Maeve is an anglicized form of the Irish name Méabh, a female given name primarily of Irish usage. The name evolved across several historical periods of the Irish language. In Early Modern Irish, it was written as Meadhbh or Maedhbh, and it appeared as Meadhbh in Medieval Irish. During the Middle Irish period, scribes wrote it as Meḋḃ or Meaḋḃ, developing from the Old Irish form Medb.
The name may derive from an ancient word meaning “she who intoxicates,” “mead-woman,” or alternatively “she who rules.” From the Middle Irish Medb, the name carries the literal sense of “intoxicating,” which connects closely with mead, the traditional honey-based drink of ancient celebration.
In Irish mythology, Medb stands out as a legendary queen of Connacht featured prominently in the Ulster Cycle. In mythological tradition, she is thought to have originally been a sovereignty goddess who represented royal authority and the land itself.
Pronunciation
Maeve is pronounced MAYV. It has a single syllable that rhymes with brave, cave, and wave. The initial consonant “M” connects straight to a long “ay” sound, ending with a soft “v.”
Because it is a single syllable, the name sounds crisp and straightforward. The phonetic flow makes it easy to pronounce clearly without hesitation.
Popularity in the US
In the United States, Maeve is most often given to girls and first appeared in 1940. The name was not in the list in 1950, but by 1980 it stood at rank 5,422 with 13 babies. It grew steadily over the following years, reaching rank 778 with 295 babies in 2000 and rank 536 with 546 babies in 2010. The upward rise accelerated as Maeve jumped to rank 174 with 1,644 babies in 2020 before climbing to its peak rank of 73 in 2023. In 2025, the name held rank 76 with 3,153 babies, bringing the total count to 29,608 US girls since 1940.
| Year | US rank (girls) | Babies named Maeve |
|---|---|---|
| 1950 | not in the list | – |
| 1980 | #5,422 | 13 |
| 2000 | #778 | 295 |
| 2010 | #536 | 546 |
| 2020 | #174 | 1,644 |
| 2025 | #76 | 3,153 |
Source: US Social Security Administration baby name data (names given to at least 5 babies in a year).
Nicknames
Because Maeve is already a short name, common short forms often serve as affectionate pet names. Familiar options include Mae, May, Mave, and Maevie.
Some families also use Maevey or Mimi as casual family nicknames, while many parents choose to keep the name exactly as it is without any shortening.
Famous People Named Maeve
Several notable figures share this name, bringing it prominence in literature, entertainment, and athletics:
- Maeve Binchy: An internationally celebrated Irish novelist and playwright known for bestselling books about human relationships and Irish community life.
- Maeve Higgins: A popular Irish comedian, television host, and writer who has published humorous essays and appeared on stage and radio.
- Maeve Quinlan: An American actress and former professional tennis player who has starred in numerous television dramas and movies.
Middle and Sibling Names
Complementary middle names include Rose, Claire, Jane, and Elodie.
For brothers and sisters, fitting sibling names include Liam, Finn, Declan, and Rowan.
FAQ
What are the variant spellings of Maeve?
The variant spellings of Maeve are Meave, Maev, Maiv, and Maiev. These forms provide alternate ways to write the Irish name Méabh. While Maeve is the most common choice, variants such as Maev and Meave provide streamlined alternatives that share the same single-syllable pronunciation.
In what year was Maeve first given to American babies?
Maeve first appeared in 1940. It was not in the list in 1950 and remained little used until 1980, when 13 babies received the name at rank 5,422. From that starting point, the name gradually found wider favor, eventually rising into the top ranks decades later.
How does the peak year for Maeve compare to its most recent rank?
Maeve reached its peak rank of 73 in 2023, while its latest rank was 76 in 2025. That peak represented the high point of a major rise, climbing from rank 174 in 2020. With 3,153 girls given the name in 2025, it continues to enjoy a popularity level very close to its highest mark.
