Maeve: a female name of Irish (Gaelic) origin meaning "This name derives from the Old Irish “Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ,” Middle Irish “Meadhbh,” and modern Irish “Meadhbh,” meaning “Intoxicating, she who intoxicates".It derives from the Irish (Gaelic) word "Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ".
Maeve is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Old Irish “Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ,” Middle Irish “Meadhbh,” and modern Irish “Meadhbh,” meaning “Intoxicating, she who intoxicates". Its Irish (Gaelic) origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.
Quick Facts About Maeve
Quick facts about Maeve
Origin
Irish (Gaelic)
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Old Irish “Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ,” Middle Irish “Meadhbh,” and modern Irish “Meadhbh,” meaning “Intoxicating, she who intoxicates.” Meḋḃ was an ancient honey wine typically consumed during a marriage ceremony. Medb is the queen of Connacht in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. Her husband in the core stories of the cycle is Ailill mac Máta, although she had several husbands before him who were also kings of Connacht.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ
How to Pronounce Maeve
Maeve is pronounced /ˈmeɪv/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Maev-e
Say it like: "MEEEHV"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across english, and irish speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
englishirish
Frequently Asked Questions About Maeve
What does the name Maeve mean?
Maeve means "This name derives from the Old Irish “Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ,” Middle Irish “Meadhbh,” and modern Irish “Meadhbh,” meaning “Intoxicating, she who intoxicates.” Meḋḃ was an ancient honey wine typically consumed during a marriage ceremony. Medb is the queen of Connacht in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. Her husband in the core stories of the cycle is Ailill mac Máta, although she had several husbands before him who were also kings of Connacht.". The name comes from Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ. This irish (gaelic) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Maeve for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old Irish “Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ,” Middle Irish “Meadhbh,” and modern Irish “Meadhbh,” meaning “Intoxicating, she who intoxicates.” Meḋḃ was an ancient honey wine typically consumed during a marriage ceremony. Medb is the queen of Connacht in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. Her husband in the core stories of the cycle is Ailill mac Máta, although she had several husbands before him who were also kings of Connacht." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Maeve's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like IRISH MYTHOLOGY, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Maeve?
Maeve is a irish (gaelic) name. The name traces back to Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ. From its irish (gaelic) roots, Maeve spread to become common in english, irish. The irish (gaelic) meaning "This name derives from the Old Irish “Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ,” Middle Irish “Meadhbh,” and modern Irish “Meadhbh,” meaning “Intoxicating, she who intoxicates.” Meḋḃ was an ancient honey wine typically consumed during a marriage ceremony. Medb is the queen of Connacht in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. Her husband in the core stories of the cycle is Ailill mac Máta, although she had several husbands before him who were also kings of Connacht." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Maeve a boy or girl name?
Maeve is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In irish (gaelic) tradition, Maeve has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Old Irish “Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ,” Middle Irish “Meadhbh,” and modern Irish “Meadhbh,” meaning “Intoxicating, she who intoxicates.” Meḋḃ was an ancient honey wine typically consumed during a marriage ceremony. Medb is the queen of Connacht in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. Her husband in the core stories of the cycle is Ailill mac Máta, although she had several husbands before him who were also kings of Connacht." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Maeve?
Maeve is pronounced "/ˈmeɪv/". This pronunciation follows ga language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Maeve is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, irish, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with irish (gaelic) names, listening to a native speaker say Maeve can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Maeve?
Maeve is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Maeve offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Maeve's popularity may vary between irish (gaelic) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old Irish “Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ,” Middle Irish “Meadhbh,” and modern Irish “Meadhbh,” meaning “Intoxicating, she who intoxicates.” Meḋḃ was an ancient honey wine typically consumed during a marriage ceremony. Medb is the queen of Connacht in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. Her husband in the core stories of the cycle is Ailill mac Máta, although she had several husbands before him who were also kings of Connacht." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Maeve holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Maeve commonly used?
Maeve is common in english and irish naming traditions. Though irish (gaelic) in origin, Maeve found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Old Irish “Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ,” Middle Irish “Meadhbh,” and modern Irish “Meadhbh,” meaning “Intoxicating, she who intoxicates.” Meḋḃ was an ancient honey wine typically consumed during a marriage ceremony. Medb is the queen of Connacht in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. Her husband in the core stories of the cycle is Ailill mac Máta, although she had several husbands before him who were also kings of Connacht." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Maeve into their naming traditions. A child named Maeve will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Maeve is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Maeve?
Maeve carries associations with IRISH MYTHOLOGY. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old Irish “Meḋḃ / Meaḋḃ,” Middle Irish “Meadhbh,” and modern Irish “Meadhbh,” meaning “Intoxicating, she who intoxicates.” Meḋḃ was an ancient honey wine typically consumed during a marriage ceremony. Medb is the queen of Connacht in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. Her husband in the core stories of the cycle is Ailill mac Máta, although she had several husbands before him who were also kings of Connacht." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In irish (gaelic) culture, where Maeve originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Maeve sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Maeve often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.