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Meadghbh Name Meaning & Details

Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Meadghbh

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

Name

Meadghbh

Gender

Female

Origin

Celtic

Lucky Number

3

Meaning of the Name

Meadhbh is an ancient Irish name meaning 'she who intoxicates' or 'the intoxicating one,' often associated with a legendary warrior queen in Celtic mythology.

Stages of a Female

Complete Numerology Analysis

Your Numerology Number

3

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 Meadghbh

Meadhbh of Connacht

Legendary Queen

Central figure in Ulster Cycle mythology who led legendary cattle raid

Meadhbh Ní Eochaid

Historical Queen

8th century ruler known for political influence and strategic leadership

Meadhbh of Tara

Mythological Figure

Sovereignty goddess representing royal legitimacy and land's spirit

Name Variations & International Equivalents

Meadhbh Irish Gaelic Maeve Anglicized Medb Old Irish Méabh Modern Irish Maeva French/Polynesian

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Cultural & Historical Significance

Meadghbh stands as one of the most culturally significant names in Celtic tradition, representing a bridge between ancient goddess worship and historical queenship. In Irish mythology, Queen Meadhbh of Connacht embodies the ideal of female sovereignty that was central to pre-Christian Celtic society. Her portrayal in the Ulster Cycle demonstrates that Celtic women could wield political power, lead armies, and exercise sexual autonomy in ways that would be remarkable even by modern standards. The name's connection to mead (an alcoholic drink) symbolizes the intoxicating nature of sovereignty - the idea that a true ruler could 'intoxicate' the land and people with prosperity and harmony. Historically, the name appears in early medieval annals and genealogies, indicating that real women bore this name and likely embodied some of the powerful qualities of their mythological counterpart. The cultural significance extends beyond Ireland to the broader Celtic world, where similar powerful female figures appear in Welsh, Scottish, and Breton traditions, though Meadhbh remains uniquely Irish in her specific mythological context and historical resonance.

Extended Personality Analysis

The personality traits associated with Meadhbh reflect the name's rich mythological heritage and linguistic meaning. Those named Meadhbh often develop a natural leadership presence combined with intellectual agility that makes them effective problem-solvers and strategists. Their 'nimbleness' manifests as mental flexibility, allowing them to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining their core values and objectives. These individuals typically possess strong communication skills and emotional intelligence, enabling them to build alliances and inspire loyalty - qualities famously demonstrated by the mythological Queen Meadhbh who maintained the allegiance of diverse warriors and allies. There's often a creative, almost artistic quality to their thinking, combined with practical determination that helps them turn visions into reality. While they can be fiercely independent and strong-willed, they also value deep connections and often become pillars of their communities or social circles. The historical weight of the name sometimes inspires bearers to develop a strong sense of social justice and the courage to challenge unfair systems, continuing the tradition of their namesake who defied gender expectations and political conventions.

Modern Usage & Popularity

The modern usage of Meadhbh reflects a fascinating intersection of cultural preservation and contemporary naming trends. While the name nearly disappeared during periods of English domination and the decline of the Irish language, it has experienced a dramatic revival since the late 20th century. This resurgence coincides with the Celtic Tiger economic boom and renewed interest in Irish cultural identity. In Ireland today, both Meadhbh and its simplified spelling Méabh regularly appear in birth announcements, particularly in Irish-speaking regions and among families emphasizing cultural heritage. Internationally, the anglicized 'Maeve' has become increasingly popular, ranking #173 in the United States in 2022 and showing similar growth in other English-speaking countries. The name appeals to modern parents seeking strong, distinctive names with historical depth and positive feminine associations. Social media and popular culture have further boosted its visibility, with characters in shows like 'Sex Education' and 'Westworld' introducing the name to global audiences. Current usage trends suggest continued growth as parents increasingly value names with cultural authenticity and powerful meanings.

Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings

Symbolically, Meadhbh operates on multiple levels that transcend its literal meaning of 'nimble' or 'intoxicating.' At its deepest level, the name represents the Celtic concept of sovereignty - the mystical bond between a ruler and their land, where the prosperity of one directly affects the other. This makes Meadhbh symbolic of environmental consciousness and stewardship in modern interpretations. The intoxicating aspect symbolizes transformative power - the ability to change perspectives, inspire action, and create new realities through personal influence. In psychological terms, the name represents integration of traditionally 'masculine' qualities (leadership, strategic thinking) with 'feminine' strengths (intuition, emotional intelligence, nurturing). The nimbleness symbolizes the modern necessity of adaptability while maintaining core integrity. For many contemporary bearers, the name has come to symbolize cultural resilience - the survival and revival of Celtic identity against historical pressures. It also represents the reclamation of powerful feminine archetypes in an era seeking more balanced gender representations, making it symbolic of both personal empowerment and cultural renaissance.

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