Girl name · English
Mae
“pearl; mother (May variant)”
Vibes
Common nicknames
Short-forms and diminutives parents often use for Mae.
Explore Mae further
Similar-feel alternatives, or middle-name candidates that pair well with Mae — both ranked by the same scoring system (vibe overlap, syllable rhythm, origin compatibility).
About the name
Mae is the May-month name respelled Victorian-style — rooted in Maia, the Greek and Roman goddess of spring growth, with a side lineage as a Margaret/Mary pet form ("pearl"). Mae West gave it the wink it never lost.
Mae sits around 500th as a first name in 2024 while reigning as one of the era's defining middle names — promotion to the front spot is the smart contrarian play.
The name is one syllable of late spring. It pairs well with longer middles (Mae Evangeline, Mae Seraphina), reversing its usual role. On our vibe map it is Soft & Dreamy in Vintage Elegant lace.
More English names
Mae sits in our English set — these share its roots.
All English names →Mae — common questions
Is Mae a boy or girl name?
Mae is traditionally a girl name of English origin. It ranked #501 among US girls' names in 2025.
What does the name Mae mean?
Mae means “pearl; mother (May variant)” of English origin. Mae is the May-month name respelled Victorian-style — rooted in Maia, the Greek and Roman goddess of spring growth, with a side lineage as a Margaret/Mary pet form ("pearl"). Mae West gave it the wink it never lost.
Where does the name Mae come from?
Mae is English in origin. Mae sits around 500th as a first name in 2024 while reigning as one of the era's defining middle names — promotion to the front spot is the smart contrarian play.
What are common nicknames for Mae?
Mae, Mae, and El — the short-forms parents most often use for Mae.
How popular is Mae?
Mae ranked #501 in US Social Security Administration data for 2025, which keeps it recognisable but uncommon.
Bring the name into the room
A couple of nice things named Mae you might want for the nursery.