May

1. May name meaning and origin

The name May has multiple origins and rich symbolic associations. Primarily, it derives from the Old English word 'Maie,' which refers to the fifth month of the Gregorian calendar. This month name originates from the Latin 'Maius,' named after Maia, a Roman earth goddess associated with growth and the spring season. The name embodies the essence of renewal, vitality, and flourishing that characterizes the spring season.

Beyond its temporal association, May also functions as a diminutive of the names Mary, Margaret, and Mabel across various European traditions. As a standalone given name, it gained popularity during the late Victorian era when nature-inspired names came into fashion. The name carries positive connotations of possibility and permission through its connection with the auxiliary verb 'may,' although this represents a separate etymological development from the name itself.

References:

2. May name popularity

Girl

Boy

in 2023

from 2022

Popularity of May

United States

United Kingdom

May is a versatile name used for both males and females in the United States and United Kingdom. While specific popularity rankings are not available in the provided data, the name has maintained a presence across genders and cultures. Its gender-neutral quality makes it an adaptable choice for parents seeking a simple yet meaningful name.

As a given name, May has roots as both a diminutive of Margaret and Mary, as well as connections to the fifth month of the year, symbolizing spring and renewal. The name's brevity and pleasant sound contribute to its enduring appeal, though it appears to be used relatively modestly compared to more dominant contemporary names.

3. Variations and nicknames of May

The name May carries a gentle charm that resonates with the springtime month it often represents. While May stands beautifully on its own, it connects to several cultural and linguistic variations across the globe. The English May evolved from the Latin 'Maia,' named after the Roman goddess of growth. In other European traditions, variants like the German 'Mai,' French 'Mae,' and the Scottish 'Maeve' share similar etymological roots. Some parents choose the more elaborate 'Mabel' or 'Mavis,' which historically connect to May's meaning. The Japanese name 'Mei' sounds identical but carries its own distinct cultural significance, while the Korean 'Mae-young' offers another beautiful international variation.

Beyond formal variants, May has spawned numerous affectionate nicknames. 'Maymay' and 'Mayzie' add playful touches for younger Mays, while 'Maybell' combines May with another nature-inspired name. Close friends might use endearments like 'May-May,' 'Maybug,' or the simple 'M.' Some Mays might be called 'Mayflower,' especially if born in spring. The flexibility of the name allows for creative diminutives like 'Maykins' within families. When May serves as a middle name or part of a compound name like Mary-May or May-Elizabeth, nicknames like 'M&M' or 'MayLiz' often emerge. The versatility of May demonstrates how even short, seemingly straightforward names can bloom into rich variations, reflecting personal connections and cultural backgrounds across different communities and generations.

4. Best name combinations with May

Middle names that pair well with May:

May Elizabeth
May Charlotte
May Victoria
May Josephine
May Catherine
May Eleanor
May Genevieve
May Isabelle
May Juliette
May Alexandra
May Penelope
May Evangeline
May Celestine
May Rosalind
May Vivienne
May Seraphina
May Theodora
May Aurelia
May Beatrice
May Lucienne

Names that go well when May is used as a middle name:

Emma May
Sophia May
Claire May
Olivia May
Amelia May
Eleanor May
Violet May
Isabella May
Lillian May
Florence May
Camille May
Josephine May
Evangeline May
Genevieve May
Rosalind May
Vivienne May
Adelaide May
Madeline May
Caroline May
Beatrice May

5. Numerology of May name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

4
M(4) + A(1) + Y(7) = 12 = 1+2 = 4
The Destiny Number 4 suggests that May's life path revolves around building solid foundations. As a 4, May likely possesses natural organizational skills, practicality, and dependability. In career, May thrives in structured environments requiring attention to detail and methodical approaches. In relationships, 4s are loyal and seek stability, though sometimes they may need to soften their rigid expectations of others.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire):

1
Vowels: A(1) = 1
With a Soul Urge Number 1, May's inner desires center around independence, leadership, and originality. Deep down, May wishes to forge her own path and be recognized for individual achievements. In career, she's motivated by opportunities to lead and pioneer. In relationships, she needs space to express individuality while balancing partnership needs.

Personality Number:

3
Consonants: M(4) + Y(7) = 11 = 1+1 = 2
The Personality Number 3 reflects how May presents herself to the world. May likely comes across as creative, expressive, and sociable. This number suggests natural communication skills and an optimistic outlook. In professional settings, May can excel in roles requiring creativity and interaction. In relationships, May is likely perceived as engaging and articulate, bringing positive energy to social connections.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

6. Names similar to May

Like May ? What about:

Riv

Rose

Adrian

Caden

Mar

Ainsley

Bellamy

Cayden

Charlette

Camille

Caleb

Jewel

Beau

Charlee

Bom

Caiden

June

Ahjin

Blaise

Addison

Common sibling names

Sisters

Charlee

Addison

Sage

June

Darcy

Grace

Rose

Delaney

Elaine

Carter

Ainsley

Eleanor

Gianna

Adelyn

Camille

Pearl

Raine

Beau

Bellamy

Elianna

Brothers

Gabriel

Addison

Gideon

Caden

Sage

Jay

Elias

Caleb

Damien

Aiden

Carter

Caiden

Dominic

Adrian

Darcy

Beau

Bellamy

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May

1. May name meaning and origin

References:

2. May name popularity

3. Variations and nicknames of May

4. Best name combinations with May

Middle names that pair well with May:

Names that go well when May is used as a middle name:

5. Numerology of May name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire):

Personality Number:

6. Names similar to May

Like May ? What about:

Common sibling names

Generate a perfect name for your baby

Search by name

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Baby name lists including May

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