Mei Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Mei
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name MEI. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Mei
Gender
Female
Origin
Chinese
Lucky Number
9
Meaning of the Name
Mei commonly means 'beautiful' or 'plum' in Chinese, reflecting elegance and natural beauty in cultural contexts.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Mars
Positive Nature
Generous, passionate, energetic, and humanitarian.
Negative Traits
Impulsive, impatient, moody, and can be overly emotional.
Lucky Colours
Red, maroon, scarlet.
Lucky Days
Tuesday.
Lucky Stones
Red coral, garnet.
Harmony Numbers
1, 2, 3, 6.
Best Suited Professions
Military, sports, philanthropy, leadership roles.
What People Like About You
Courage, energy, leadership, generosity.
Famous People Named Mei
Mei Lanfang
Peking Opera performer
Revolutionized Chinese opera and was one of the most famous Dan (female role) performers in history
Mei Yaochen
Poet
One of the major Song Dynasty poets who helped develop the new poetic style of the era
Mei Jiao
Scientist
Renowned Chinese-American biochemist and professor at University of California
Mei Hong
Scientist
Chinese-American chemist and professor at MIT, known for pioneering work in solid-state NMR spectroscopy
Name Variations & International Equivalents
Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.
Cultural & Historical Significance
Historically, the name has been popular among educated families who appreciate its literary and artistic connections, particularly during the Tang and Song dynasties when plum blossom poetry flourished. The name also carries feminine elegance and has been used in classical Chinese literature to represent virtuous women who maintain their integrity despite challenges. In traditional Chinese painting, the plum blossom is often depicted with bamboo and pine as the 'Three Friends of Winter,' representing the ideal scholar's qualities of endurance, flexibility, and persistence.
The cultural significance extends to festivals and celebrations, where plum blossoms are used in Lunar New Year decorations to symbolize hope and new beginnings. The name Mei thus carries centuries of cultural memory, connecting the bearer to Chinese philosophical traditions, artistic heritage, and seasonal symbolism that emphasizes the beauty of perseverance and the promise of renewal after hardship.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Mei are often perceived as possessing a unique blend of strength and grace, much like the plum blossom that thrives in harsh conditions. They typically exhibit remarkable resilience, inner strength, and the ability to remain composed under pressure. Their personality often combines traditional values with modern sensibilities, creating a balanced character that respects heritage while embracing progress. Mei's are frequently described as thoughtful, artistic, and possessing quiet determination—they don't need to be loud to make their presence felt.
Their strength is often internalized, showing through consistent action rather than bold declarations. They tend to be loyal friends and family members who provide steadfast support during difficult times, embodying the plum blossom's symbolism of hope and renewal after winter's challenges. Many Mei's display creative talents, particularly in arts, literature, or music, and have an appreciation for beauty in its various forms. They often possess a contemplative nature, with the ability to see deeper meanings in everyday experiences.
In social settings, Mei's are typically observant and perceptive, understanding group dynamics without needing to dominate conversations. They form deep, meaningful relationships rather than numerous superficial ones. Their combination of traditional wisdom and contemporary understanding makes them excellent mediators and advisors. The name's association with the first bloom of spring also suggests individuals who are pioneers or early adopters, comfortable with being first to try new approaches while maintaining their core values and integrity.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary times, Mei remains a popular name choice among Chinese families worldwide and has gained international recognition through globalization and cultural exchange. The name maintains its traditional appeal while adapting to modern contexts, often chosen by parents who want to honor Chinese heritage while selecting a name that's easily pronounceable in Western countries. Its popularity has been reinforced by the growing appreciation for Asian culture internationally and the success of Chinese diaspora communities. In recent decades, the name has seen a particular resurgence among second and third-generation Chinese immigrants seeking to preserve cultural identity while integrating into multicultural societies. Social media and popular culture have significantly boosted its visibility, with characters named Mei appearing in major international films, animations, and literature. The name's simplicity—both in writing (梅) and pronunciation—makes it accessible across cultures while retaining its deep cultural roots. Current naming trends show Mei being used both as a standalone name and in compound names like Meilin or Meixiu, with its usage expanding beyond Chinese communities to parents of various backgrounds who appreciate its elegant sound and beautiful meaning.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
The symbolic meaning of Mei extends far beyond its literal translation as 'plum,' encompassing rich layers of philosophical and cultural significance. The plum blossom represents the virtues of resilience, purity, and hope in Chinese philosophy, symbolizing the ability to endure hardship and emerge stronger—much like how the plum tree blooms beautifully in the coldest season. This metaphorical meaning connects to the Confucian ideal of maintaining moral integrity despite external pressures and circumstances. The plum blossom's five petals carry additional symbolism, representing the Five Blessings: longevity, wealth, health, love of virtue, and natural death in traditional Chinese belief systems. In Taoist tradition, the plum represents the harmony between humanity and nature, illustrating how beauty and strength can flourish in challenging environments through alignment with natural principles. Meanwhile, in Buddhist context, the plum blossom signifies the transient nature of life and beauty, serving as a reminder of impermanence and the importance of appreciating the present moment. The name carries these layered meanings, suggesting a person who embodies perseverance, elegance, moral strength, and the wisdom to understand life's cyclical nature. The plum's distinctive fragrance, which becomes more pronounced in cold weather, further symbolizes how true character and inner qualities reveal themselves most clearly during challenges and difficult times.