Maeve
“Derived from the Irish name Medb or Meadhbh, Maeve means 'the intoxicating one' and refers to the legendary warrior queen of Connacht in Irish mythology, known for her fierce intelligence, ambition, and leadership. The name has experienced a major renaissance since the late 2000s, beloved by parents seeking strong female names rooted in Celtic history. It balances literary depth with modern accessibility, evoking both ancient power and contemporary sophistication.”
Maeve is a girl's name of Irish origin. Derived from the Irish name Medb or Meadhbh, Maeve means 'the intoxicating one' and refers to the legendary warrior queen of Connacht in Irish mythology, known for her fierce intelligence, ambition, and leadership. The name has experienced a major renaissance since the late 2000s, beloved by parents seeking strong female names rooted in Celtic history. It balances literary depth with modern accessibility, evoking both ancient power and contemporary sophistication.
One of the fastest-rising names for girls in English-speaking countries, particularly since 2010, reflecting renewed interest in Irish mythology and strong female characters.
The name Maeve has roots in the Irish language tradition. It derives from elements meaning “Derived from the Irish name Medb or Meadhbh, Maeve means 'the intoxicating one' and refers to the legendary warrior queen of Connacht in Irish mythology, known for her fierce intelligence, ambition, and leadership”.
Cultural context: One of the fastest-rising names for girls in English-speaking countries, particularly since 2010, reflecting renewed interest in Irish mythology and strong female characters.
As a girl's name, Maeve carries the character of its Irish heritage while remaining a distinctive and uncommon choice for parents seeking something unique.
Maeve Dermody
EntertainmentAustralianAustralian actress, film and television performer
Australian actress known for her roles in film and television, including appearances in 'Bad Boy Bubby' (1993), 'The Sitter' (1991), and various Australian television productions.
1986 – present
Maeve Jinkings
EntertainmentBrazilianAcclaimed Brazilian actress, Palme d'Or-winning performer
Brazilian actress known for her powerful performances in critical and artistic films, including a prominent role in the Palme d'Or-winning film 'Aquarius' (2016).
1980 – present
Maeve Kennedy Townsend McKean
PoliticsAmericanCivil rights attorney, environmental activist, Kennedy family member
American lawyer, activist, and member of the Kennedy family who focused on social justice, environmental issues, and human rights advocacy before her death in 2020.
1979 – 2020
Maeve Brennan
Arts & LiteratureIrishShort story writer, New Yorker author, master of psychological fiction
Irish-American short story writer and journalist known for her elegant prose and stories exploring the lives of ordinary people, particularly in New York City and Ireland.
1917 – 1993
What does the name Maeve mean?
Maeve means "Derived from the Irish name Medb or Meadhbh, Maeve means 'the intoxicating one' and refers to the legendary warrior queen of Connacht in Irish mythology, known for her fierce intelligence, ambition, and leadership. The name has experienced a major renaissance since the late 2000s, beloved by parents seeking strong female names rooted in Celtic history. It balances literary depth with modern accessibility, evoking both ancient power and contemporary sophistication.", and is of Irish origin.
Is Maeve a girl name?
Maeve is primarily used as a girl's name.
What is the origin of the name Maeve?
Maeve is of Irish origin. One of the fastest-rising names for girls in English-speaking countries, particularly since 2010, reflecting renewed interest in Irish mythology and strong female characters.