May Name Meaning & Details

Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of May

Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name MAY. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.

Name

May

Gender

Female

Origin

Scottish

Lucky Number

Meaning of the Name

May is the Scottish form of Margaret, meaning 'pearl.' The name carries associations of springtime renewal and natural beauty in Scottish tradition.

Complete Numerology Analysis

Your Numerology Number

Based on Pythagorean Numerology System

Ruling Planet

Jupiter

Positive Nature

Optimistic, inspirational, and creative.

Negative Traits

Scattered, exaggerating.

Lucky Colours

Yellow, gold, purple.

Lucky Days

Thursday.

Lucky Stones

Yellow sapphire.

Harmony Numbers

1, 2, 9.

Best Suited Professions

Arts, writing, communication.

What People Like About You

Creativity, optimism.

Famous People Named May

May Sarton

Poet and novelist

Celebrated for her journals, poetry, and novels exploring solitude and personal growth

May Robson

Actress

Academy Award-nominated actress known for her work in early Hollywood films

May Whitty

Actress

First British actress nominated for an Academy Award, known for stage and screen work

May McAvoy

Actress

Silent film star who appeared in the original Ben-Hur and The Jazz Singer

Name Variations & International Equivalents

Mae English Mai Japanese Maia Greek Margarita Spanish Marguerite French Greta German

Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.

Cultural & Historical Significance

The name May holds deep cultural significance in Scottish tradition, serving as both a vernacular form of Margaret and a celebration of spring. Historically, Margaret was one of the most important names in Scottish royalty, with Saint Margaret of Scotland being a key figure in Scottish history. May emerged as a popular Scottish diminutive, creating a bridge between formal tradition and everyday use. The name also connects to Celtic seasonal traditions, where May marked the beginning of summer and was celebrated with Beltane festivals honoring fertility and new life. This dual heritage gives May a unique cultural position—it represents both aristocratic lineage through its connection to Margaret and natural vitality through its seasonal associations. Throughout Scottish history, the name has maintained its popularity across social classes, making it a truly national name that reflects Scotland's blend of Celtic, Norse, and English influences.

Extended Personality Analysis

Women named May are often characterized by a blend of gentle strength and quiet resilience, reflecting the dual nature of their name's meaning. They typically possess an inner beauty and composure that others find calming and reassuring, much like the pearl their name represents. Mays are frequently described as nurturing individuals with strong emotional intelligence, often serving as the emotional center of their families or social circles. Their springtime association often translates to an optimistic outlook and an ability to see potential where others see challenges. While they may appear reserved at first meeting, those who earn their trust discover loyal friends with surprising depth and wisdom. Many Mays exhibit creative tendencies and a strong appreciation for beauty in all forms, from art and music to nature's simple pleasures. They tend to be adaptable yet principled, able to navigate change while maintaining their core values.

Modern Usage & Popularity

In contemporary naming practices, May has experienced a notable revival after several decades of being used primarily as a middle name. The name has climbed popularity charts across the UK, with particular strength in Scotland where vintage names have made a strong comeback. Modern parents are drawn to May for its simplicity, elegance, and strong connection to both nature and Scottish heritage. The name appeals to those seeking a classic yet fresh-sounding option that works well internationally and carries positive associations. Current usage trends show May being chosen by parents who appreciate its botanical and seasonal connections, as well as its family tradition value. The name's versatility allows it to pair well with both traditional and modern surnames, contributing to its renewed popularity. While not reaching the heights of its late 19th-century popularity, May has firmly reestablished itself as a fashionable choice for girls born in the 21st century.

Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings

Symbolically, May carries rich layers of meaning derived from both its connection to pearls and its seasonal associations. As a form of Margaret meaning 'pearl,' the name represents hidden beauty, wisdom gained through experience, and the transformation of challenges into something valuable—much like how pearls form around irritants within oysters. The springtime connection adds symbolism of renewal, growth, and new beginnings, representing the flowering of potential and the awakening of life after periods of dormancy. In many cultural traditions, May is associated with fertility, creativity, and the blossoming of ideas and relationships. The name also carries connotations of purity, innocence, and freshness, similar to the early flowers of spring. These combined symbolic meanings create a powerful representation of life's cyclical nature and the beauty that emerges through natural processes and patient development.

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