Find out how popular the first name Fae has been for the last 50 years (from 1975 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Fae by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Fae is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 34 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Fae.

The history of the first name Fae

The name Fae has its roots in the Old English word "fæger," which means "beautiful" or "fair." This term was often used to describe the ethereal and enchanting nature of fairies or supernatural beings. The name's origins can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period, which lasted from the 5th to the 11th century in what is now England.

Fae is closely associated with the realm of fairies and folklore in British and Celtic traditions. In medieval literature and poetry, the term "fae" or "fey" was frequently used to refer to fairies, elves, and other mythical creatures. The name evokes a sense of mysticism, enchantment, and a connection to the natural world.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Fae can be found in the 14th-century Middle English romance poem "Sir Orfeo." In this work, the character of Fae is depicted as a fairy queen who rules over the kingdom of the fairies.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Fae. Fae Ellington (1914-1965) was an American jazz singer and bandleader who performed with her husband, Duke Ellington. Fae Desmond (1876-1965) was an American actress and singer who appeared on Broadway and in early films.

In the literary realm, Fae Myenne Ng (born 1957) is a Chinese-American author known for her novel "Bone." Fae Moyer (1856-1919) was a Canadian artist and painter who was part of the Impressionist movement in Canada.

Another notable figure was Fae Doubleday (1879-1962), an American artist and illustrator who created designs for books, magazines, and advertisements in the early 20th century.

While the name Fae is not as common as some other names, it has maintained a presence throughout history, evoking a sense of beauty, enchantment, and connection to the natural world. Its origins in Old English and its association with fairies and folklore have contributed to its enduring charm and mystique.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Fae was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Fae, please contact us.

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