Unveiling the Name Mai
Mai is a short and sweet name with diverse origins. It’s found in various cultures, often stemming from Sanskrit, Hawaiian, or Vietnamese roots. In Sanskrit, it means ‘ocean’ or ‘water,’ symbolizing life and fluidity. In Hawaiian, Mai signifies ‘love’ or ‘compassion.’ In Vietnamese, it can be a shortened form of names like Mai Anh, meaning ‘love flower.’
Pronunciation Guide
IPA: /maɪ/
Phonetic: my
Gender
female
Cute Nicknames
- M
- Maisy
- Maii
Mai in the Spotlight
- Mai Ly — American actress
- Maianthemum — genus of flowering plants
Cultural Significance
The name Mai resonates with positive symbolism across cultures. Its connection to water evokes feelings of purity and renewal, while its association with love and compassion brings a gentle warmth. It’s a popular choice in regions with strong ties to Asian or Pacific Islander heritage.
Where is Mai Popular?
Mai is most commonly found in Vietnam, Hawaii, and increasingly gaining popularity in other parts of the world, particularly among those seeking short, meaningful names. Its simplicity lends itself well to global appeal.
Similar Meaning Names
Quick FAQs
Is Mai a biblical name?
No, Mai is not directly mentioned in the Bible.
What does Mai mean?
Mai means ‘ocean’ or ‘water’ in Sanskrit, ‘love’ or ‘compassion’ in Hawaiian and can be shortened from Vietnamese names meaning love and flower.