Origin
The name Emily Mae combines the English given name Emily, derived from the Latin 'Aemilia', which is the feminine form of 'Aemilius', a Roman family name. The name Mae is an English variant of the River May in England, and also a variant spelling of 'May', associated with the month and the goddess Maia from Roman mythology. In Australian contexts, Emily Mahé does not have specific indigenous origins but is a blend of classic Anglo names popular in Australia.
Meaning
'Emily' signifies 'rival' or 'industrious' in Latin, while 'Mae' connotes 'May', representing springtime, renewal, and new beginnings in the Northern Hemisphere. In Australian English, the combination suggests a name for a young girl embodying vibrancy and energy.
Pronunciation
/ˈɛmɪli meɪ/ — EM-ih-lee May (stress on the first syllable of Emily, and equal emphasis on Mae). Australian English pronunciation generally aligns with this standard.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Emilia
- Emili
- Emilee
- Emilie
- Emily
Nicknames
- Em
- Millie
- Milly
- Emmy
Name Days
- 20 September (Celebration of Saint Matthew, matching the 'Ma(e)' part), recognised in some Catholic calendars.
- 1 May (International Labour Day, often associated with the 'May' link).
- 15 May (Māori Festival of Matariki, marking the new year and new beginnings in some cultural contexts, with slight poetic association).
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with emilymae:
- Olivia and Charlotte
- Grace and Lily, Sophie and Ella
- Amelia and Jessica
Fun Facts
- The name Emily was one of the most popular girls' names in Australia during the 1990s and early 2000s.
- In Australian literature, Emily is often used to evoke a sense of classic elegance and timeless femininity.
- The name Mae gained popularity in Australia as a vintage revival consistent with trends of naming children after floral or nature-themed elements.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name emilymae:
- Warm-hearted
- Energetic
- Compassionate
- Dependable
Aesthetic Qualities
The name Emily Mae has a soft, melodic visual appeal with classic letterforms. Mae adds a vintage charm, making the full name look both timeless and modern.
Geographical Distribution
Most common in metropolitan areas such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with slightly lower but steady use in regional and rural communities. Typically more popular in English-speaking regions of Australia.
Numerological Significance
Name number 3 (based on standard numerology), associated with communication, creativity, and optimism, suggesting a lively and expressive personality.
Astrological Connections
No specific astrological associations, but the name's energetic and vibrant nature aligns with Mars or the fire signs in Western astrology, symbolising enthusiasm and vitality.
Historical Context
Famous Australian bearers include Emily Simms, a pioneering female politician, and various literary characters in Australian fiction. The name surged in popularity after Queen Victoria's influence and Victorian literary works. It also features in several Australian TV series and children's books.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts easily in various languages; for instance, 'Emilia' in Italian or Spanish, 'Émilie' in French. The spelling may vary regionally, but pronunciation remains largely consistent.
Famous People Named emilymae
- Emily W. (Australian actress)
- Emily P. (journalist)
- Fictional characters in Australian literature and media
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
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2016 | 1 |