Meadhbh

Meadhbh is a modern Irish form of the ancient name Medb, from which the Anglicized Maeve also derives. The name means "intoxicating" and is deeply rooted in Irish mythology and history.

Etymology and History

Meadhbh (pronounced roughly "Maeve") evolved from Medb, an Old Irish name. The spelling Meadhbh reflects Middle Irish orthography, while the modern standardized Irish form is Méabh or Méibh. The name's meaning—"intoxicating"—is thought to refer to the euphoria or power associated with drink, but also ties to themes of sovereignty and feminine strength in Celtic tradition.

Mythological Significance

In the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology, Medb (Meadhbh) is the powerful and ambitious queen of Connacht. She is best known as the instigator of the Táin Bó Cúailnge ("The Cattle Raid of Cooley"), a legendary epic wherein she attempts to steal the prized bull Donn Cúailnge from Ulster. Her husband in these tales is Ailill, and she is a fierce adversary of the Ulster king Conchobar and the hero Cúchulainn. Medb is portrayed as strong-willed, cunning, and sexually assertive, embodying archetypal qualities of a warrior queen. Some scholars link her to a sovereignty goddess figure, with the name Medb Lethderg appearing in association with Tara.

Modern Usage

Today, Meadhbh and its variants Méabh, Maeve, and Mave are used as given names in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora. Maeve in particular has gained popularity internationally, while Meadhbh remains a traditionalist choice within Ireland. Related forms include the Anglicized spellings Meave and Mave. The name represents a direct link to Ireland's rich mythological past.

• Meaning: Intoxicating
• Origin: Irish
• Type: Given name (feminine)
• Usage Regions: Ireland and Irish diaspora