Find out how popular the first name Mame has been for the last 33 years (from 1991 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Mame by gender

Based on the last 33 years of data, Mame is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 10 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Mame.

The history of the first name Mame

The name Mame has its origins in French culture and language. It is a diminutive form of the French name Marie, which in turn derives from the Hebrew name Miriam. The name Miriam is believed to have been derived from the ancient Egyptian words "mr" meaning "beloved" and "iamm" meaning "sea of bitterness."

In the Middle Ages, the name Mame was a popular French variant of Marie. It was often used as a term of endearment for loved ones, particularly grandmothers. The name gained widespread recognition in the Western world through the novel "Auntie Mame" by Patrick Dennis, published in 1955, and the subsequent Broadway play and film adaptations.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Mame can be found in the 13th-century French poem "Roman de la Rose." In this work, the character of a young woman named Mame is portrayed as a symbol of beauty and virtue.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Mame. Mame Adjoua (1928-2021) was a renowned Ivorian singer and actress, renowned for her contributions to the traditional music of Côte d'Ivoire. Mame Diarra Bousso (1976-) is a Senegalese activist and politician, known for her work in promoting women's rights and gender equality.

Mame Maḥmūd Gāmī (1506-1589) was a Sufi saint and scholar from Gujrat, India, who wrote extensively on Islamic mysticism. Mame Kumba Siddibe (1835-1896) was a Senegalese warrior and leader of the Serer people, renowned for her bravery in battles against French colonial forces.

Mame Ndiayu Mbaye (1951-) is a Senegalese author and academic, recognized for her contributions to Francophone literature and her advocacy for women's education in West Africa.

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 Mame was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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