Amae

to love or to be loved
Japanese origin · Unisex name
50% boys50% girls
#1804US 2023
10Births / yr
Stable
Top 1.3%Percentile

What does Amae mean and where does it come from?

Amae is derived from the Japanese word 'amae', which refers to the desire to be loved and cared for.

Cultural significance
The concept of amae is significant in Japanese culture, often associated with interpersonal relationships and emotional dependency.
Peak popularity
Reached #1804 in 2015 — currently #1804 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Japanese-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →

How else can you spell Amae?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

What middle names flow best with Amae?

Amae works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Amae Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Amae John
One syllable · timeless choice
Amae Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Amae Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Amae Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Amae Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
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Middle Names
The best middle names for Amae
Browse ideas →

How popular is Amae right now?

Holding steady — currently #1804 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 20192023#1804 · Top 1.3%
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
YearUS RankBirthsvs Prior Year
2023#180410stable
2022#180410stable
2021#180410stable
2020#180410stable
2019#180410
💎Amae is exceptionally rare — it does not appear in US Social Security records, meaning fewer than 5 babies per year have received this name.

What are good nicknames for Amae?

Common
AmAmieAmy

Common questions about the name Amae

What does the name Amae mean?
Amae means "to love or to be loved" — a name rooted in Japanese tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Amae?
Amae is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Amae?
Amae originates from Japanese tradition. Japanese names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Amae a common or rare name?
Amae is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Amae more of a girl or boy name?
Amae is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.