Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      May

      Origin 
      English

      Meaning 
      Goddess Maia or Family of Matthew

      Variations 
      Maya, Mayo, Mays

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name May has a rich historical background and its origins can be traced back to the English language. Derived from the Old English word Mai, meaning the fifth month of the year, this name has deep-rooted significance in various cultures. Additionally, it also has diverse etymological connections, such as being associated with the goddess Maia in Greek mythology and with the family of Matthew in biblical contexts.

      Throughout history, the name May has found its place in different periods and regions. In ancient Greece, the goddess Maia was revered as a deity of fertility and growth, making May a popular choice for naming girls. In Christianity, the name May gained prominence due to its reference to the family of Matthew, one of the apostles of Jesus. This historical significance has bestowed the name May with a sense of sacredness and femininity.

      Today, the usage of the name May has evolved but has still managed to retain its charm. While it may not be as prevalent as it once was, May continues to be a favorite choice for parents seeking a simple, elegant name for their daughters. Its timeless appeal and delicate beauty make it a perfect choice for those who appreciate tradition without being overly conventional.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with May.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for May.

      John

      is the most common spouse name for May.

      John

      is the most common child name for May.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1900 is when there were the most people born with the first name May.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.