Girl · 199th of 30,306
Maeve
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
26,442
Total Births
145
Years of Data
2024
Peak Popularity Year
3,098
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Maeve stands across generations
Rankings for U.S. births from 2013 to 2024.
Based on the most recent three-year movement in the national data.
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Meaning, origin & U.S. popularity
Summary
The name Maeve has its roots in Irish culture, originating from the old Irish 'Medb', meaning 'she who intoxicates'. It has evolved from Medb to Maeve over time. The name is associated with a legendary figure in Irish mythology and embodies traits of strength and independence. There is no biblical relevance to the name, and it gained popularity in the 20th century. Today, it is perceived positively, linked to empowerment, and has notable bearers in literature and entertainment.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/meɪv/
Origin
Irish
Etymology
The name Maeve derives from the old Irish 'Medb', meaning 'she who intoxicates'. It is associated with a legendary queen of Connacht in Irish mythology who was known for her strength and independence.
Meaning
intoxicating
Language Evolution
Medb, Maeve
Historical Usage
Maeve has been used in Ireland since ancient times, but it gained more widespread popularity in the English-speaking world during the 20th century, particularly in the mid-1900s.
Variants & Derivatives
Medb, Maolmhuire, Maebh
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, Maeve is viewed as a strong and independent name, often associated with femininity and empowerment. It has gained popularity in various cultures, especially among those interested in Irish heritage.
Famous People
Maeve Binchy, an Irish novelist, Maeve Higgins, an Irish comedian and writer
Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Rising
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
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Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Highly Popular name with 3,098 peak births in 2024
Geographic Spread
Popular across 51 US states, with strongest presence in New Hampshire
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 6 different American generations with varying popularity
Alternative spellings & similar sounds
Compare 4 names that share a similar pronunciation but use different spellings.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Full popularity table across American generations 6 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Girl | 5791st of 9204 | 35 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 4435th of 12526 | 149 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 5573rd of 19264 | 144 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 2027th of 27321 | 979 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 681st of 35406 | 6,468 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 199th of 30306 | 18,667 |