US Popularity Rank: 5599

Origin: Vietnamese

Meaning: Dance; Linen robe; Genuine; Love, affection; May; Plum, apricot; Bitterness; Beloved; Wished for a child; Water

Mai is a gender-neutral name of Japanese origin, meaning “dance,” “linen robe,” “love,” “affection,” and “genuine.” Whether you’re good at it or not, dancing is a universal way to express joy, making this a lovely meaning for baby’s name. Or perhaps you really are hoping to raise a future dancer! Mai is also a Danish and Estonian name used for the month of May, or derived from the Hebrew Miriam, meaning “beloved,” “bitterness,” and “wished for a child.” Not stopping there, Mai’s Vietnamese usage bears the fruity meaning “plum” or “apricot.” Finally, as an Arabic appellation, Mai means “water” for the little tot who goes with the flow.