What does Mai mean and where does it come from?
In Japan, 'Mai' (舞 or 真) can imply dancing or can refer to the word for 'true' or 'genuine'. The name is widely popular in Vietnam, where it represents the peach blossom or is simply used for 'May' in the context of the month. In China, it can be associated with various meanings depending on the cha
Cultural significance
Mai has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of true, genuine.
Peak popularity
Reached #778 in 1881 — currently #1701 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Mai?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Mai?
Mai works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Mai Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Mai Rose
Floral · soft ending
Mai Claire
French influence · crisp
Mai Jane
Literary · strong
Mai Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Mai right now?
Holding steady — currently #1701 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1701 | 499 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2022 | #1706 | 479 | ▲ up 5 · +7% births |
| 2021 | #1711 | 449 | ▲ up 1600 · +876% births |
| 2020 | #3311 | 46 | ▲ up 113 |
| 2015 | #3424 | 46 | ▼ down 489 · -21% births |
| 2010 | #2935 | 58 | ▼ down 757 · -31% births |
| 2005 | #2178 | 84 | ▲ up 34 · +18% births |
| 2000 | #2212 | 71 | ▼ down 1133 · -57% births |
| 1995 | #1079 | 165 | ▼ down 286 · -35% births |
| 1990 | #793 | 254 | ▲ up 126 · +48% births |
| 1985 | #919 | 172 | ▲ up 707 · +142% births |
| 1980 | #1626 | 71 | ▲ up 1347 · +196% births |
| 1975 | #2973 | 24 | ▲ up 473 · +33% births |
| 1970 | #3446 | 18 | ▲ up 510 · +64% births |
| 1965 | #3956 | 11 | — |
The story of Mai
Mai has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 5,424 total births recorded, Mai remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #804 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1701 in 2023. Mai is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Mai in 1881:
Mai by decade
Mai peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 12 | |
| 1890s | 30 | |
| 1900s | 29 | |
| 1910s | 83 | |
| 1920s | 128 | |
| 1930s | 94 | |
| 1940s | 45 | |
| 1950s | 77 | |
| 1960s | 107 | |
| 1970s | 251 | |
| 1980s | 1,604 | |
| 1990s ★ | 1,656 | |
| 2000s | 746 | |
| 2010s | 516 | |
| 2020s | 46 | |
💎With 5,424 total births, Mai is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Mai?
What names sound and feel like Mai?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Mai also consider these
Common questions about the name Mai
What does the name Mai mean?
Mai means "True, genuine" — a name rooted in Japan 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 Mai?
Mai 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 Mai?
Mai originates from Japan tradition. Japan names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Mai?
Mai is a one-syllable name pronounced M AY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Mai sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Mai flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Mai ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.