Meadhbh Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Meadhbh
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name MEADHBH. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Meadhbh
Gender
Female
Origin
Irish
Lucky Number
5
Meaning of the Name
Meadhbh is a traditional Irish female name meaning 'she who intoxicates' or 'joy,' often associated with happiness and preciousness like a pearl. It carries strong connections to legendary queens and embodies qualities of leadership and feminine power in Celtic culture.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Mercury
Positive Nature
Adventurous, dynamic, curious, and social.
Negative Traits
Restless, impatient, inconsistent, prone to indulgence.
Lucky Colours
Green, white.
Lucky Days
Wednesday.
Lucky Stones
Emerald.
Harmony Numbers
1, 3, 9.
Best Suited Professions
Sales, marketing, travel, entertainment.
What People Like About You
Versatility, charisma, adventurous spirit.
Famous People Named Meadhbh
Meadhbh of Connacht
Legendary Queen
Central figure in Irish mythology's Ulster Cycle, powerful warrior queen
Meadhbh Ní Eochaidh
Historical Queen
8th century Queen of Connacht who ruled autonomously
Meadhbh O'Connor
Environmental Artist
Contemporary Irish artist known for ecological installations
Meadhbh Costello
Musician
Traditional Irish musician preserving Gaelic musical heritage
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
Historically, the name was borne by several Irish queens and noblewomen, particularly in Connacht, where it symbolized royal authority and independence. The name's association with both 'intoxicating' or 'she who makes drunk' and 'pearl' reflects the dual nature of Celtic sovereignty goddesses—both alluring and formidable, life-giving and destructive. This complex symbolism made Meadhbh a name reserved for women of high status, reflecting their role in maintaining the balance between human society and the natural world in Celtic cosmology.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Meadhbh are often perceived as strong-willed, independent, and charismatic leaders with natural authority. They tend to possess a magnetic personality that draws others to them, combined with fierce determination and ambition. Like the legendary queen, modern Meadhbhs often exhibit strategic thinking, confidence in their decisions, and a refusal to be dominated by others. There's typically a creative, passionate side to their nature—they pursue their goals with intensity and aren't afraid to challenge conventions or traditional expectations.
At the same time, the name's meaning of 'happiness' or 'pearl' suggests a valuable, radiant quality—someone who brings joy to others while maintaining their own inner strength and resilience. They often balance this strength with warmth and loyalty to those they care about, creating a complex personality that commands both respect and affection. This combination of formidable will and genuine warmth makes Meadhbhs natural leaders who can inspire devotion while maintaining clear boundaries and personal integrity.
Modern Usage & Popularity
Meadhbh has experienced a significant revival in modern Ireland and among the Irish diaspora, particularly in its anglicized form 'Maeve.' While the traditional Irish spelling Meadhbh remains less common outside Irish-speaking communities, it's cherished by those seeking to preserve Gaelic cultural heritage. The name has seen steady growth in popularity since the 1990s, ranking among the top 100 girls' names in Ireland and gaining traction in English-speaking countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. Its appeal lies in its strong historical roots combined with a contemporary, elegant sound that feels both classic and fresh. Many parents are drawn to its association with powerful female leadership and Irish cultural identity, making it a popular choice for those wanting a name that's both traditional and distinctive without being overly common.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Meadhbh represents sovereignty, feminine power, and the sacred connection between ruler and land in Celtic tradition. As a 'pearl,' she symbolizes something rare, precious, and formed through adversity—beauty and value created from hardship and challenge. The intoxicating aspect of her name suggests the power to captivate and influence others, while the joyful meaning points to the life-affirming qualities of effective leadership and personal authenticity. In broader symbolic terms, Meadhbh embodies the essential paradox of creation and destruction, fertility and warfare, reflecting the Celtic understanding of sovereignty as something that must be actively won and maintained rather than passively inherited. She represents the independent spirit, the courage to pursue one's desires against opposition, and the wisdom to understand that true power comes from authenticity and self-knowledge rather than external validation or conformity to social expectations.