Meaning
Intoxicating, she who rules
Origin
Irish Gaelic
Gender
Girl / Female
Pronunciation
MAYV
Name story
What Maeve communicates
Maeve is a girl name of Irish Gaelic origin meaning "Intoxicating, she who rules". That gives it a clear, rooted emotional tone that is easy to connect with and quick to remember.
It is pronounced MAYV and sits at a popularity score of 59/100 in our index, which suggests how widely it is chosen today. Names in this range tend to appeal to parents who want something recognizable yet still distinctive.
If Maeve feels close but not quite right, the related names and theme links below lead to options that share its Irish Gaelic heritage or its core idea of "Intoxicating, she who rules". Comparing a few side by side is the easiest way to settle on the name that fits your family best.
Famous People Named Maeve
- QQueen Maeve (Irish mythology)
- MMaeve (Westworld)
Names with Similar Meanings
Names that share similar themes and meanings with Maeve
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Maeve mean?
The name Maeve means "Intoxicating, she who rules". It is a name of Irish Gaelic origin that has been carried across many cultures and generations. The meaning reflects qualities valued in Irish Gaelic naming tradition, which is part of why parents who want a name with a clear, positive sense often choose Maeve.
What is the origin of the name Maeve?
Maeve originates from Irish Gaelic. Names of Irish Gaelic origin tend to carry deep historical and cultural significance, shaped by language, religion, and tradition over centuries. Maeve fits that pattern: its roots give it the meaning "Intoxicating, she who rules" and connect it to a long lineage of related names that share the same heritage.
Is Maeve a popular name?
Maeve appears on baby-name popularity charts across many English-speaking countries. Its usage has shifted across generations, rising and falling with cultural moments, famous bearers, and naming trends. You can see where Maeve sits relative to other names on its popularity score above, and compare it with similar names in the same style.
What names are similar to Maeve?
Names similar to Maeve include those with shared origins, related meanings, or a similar sound and rhythm. The related names and similar-meaning sections above list strong alternatives, so if you love Maeve but want options, you can explore names that carry the same Irish Gaelic heritage or the same idea of "Intoxicating, she who rules".
How do you pronounce Maeve?
Maeve is pronounced "MAYV". Pronunciation can vary slightly by region and language, but this guide reflects the most common way the name Maeve is said.
Is Maeve a boy or a girl name?
Maeve is most commonly used as a girl name. Like many names it can cross gender lines depending on culture, era, and family preference, but its Irish Gaelic roots and traditional usage are reflected on this page. If you want a clearly gender-neutral option, browse our unisex names for alternatives.
What does the name Maeve symbolize?
The name Maeve symbolizes "Intoxicating, she who rules". That theme gives Maeve a distinct emotional tone that many parents connect with, and it links the name to a wider family of names built on the same idea. Exploring names that share the meaning "Intoxicating, she who rules" is a good way to find alternatives with a similar feeling.
Is Maeve a good baby name?
Maeve is a meaningful choice: it carries the meaning "Intoxicating, she who rules", has clear Irish Gaelic heritage, and a recognizable pronunciation. Whether it is the right baby name depends on your taste, family traditions, and how it pairs with your surname.