Find out how popular the first name Marae has been for the last 44 years (from 1979 to 2022) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Marae by gender

Based on the last 44 years of data, Marae is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2022, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Marae.

The history of the first name Marae

The given name Marae has its origins in the Polynesian languages, specifically the Maori language of New Zealand. It is derived from the Maori word "marae," which refers to a sacred communal space or plaza within a Maori village where important ceremonies, gatherings, and community events are held. The word "marae" itself is thought to have been derived from an older Polynesian word meaning "cleared area" or "open space."

In Maori culture, the marae serves as the heart of the community and holds significant spiritual and cultural significance. It is a place where the Maori people gather to celebrate their traditions, honor their ancestors, and conduct important rituals and ceremonies. The name Marae, when given to a child, may have been intended to convey a connection to this sacred space and the cultural traditions it represents.

The earliest recorded use of the name Marae dates back to the late 18th century, when European explorers and missionaries began documenting Maori language and culture. However, it is likely that the name was in use among the Maori people long before written records were kept.

One notable figure in history who bore the name Marae was Marae Te Rohe, a Maori chief and warrior who lived in the early 19th century. He was known for his leadership and involvement in the Musket Wars, a series of conflicts among Maori tribes that occurred during the early period of European contact and the introduction of firearms.

Another historical figure named Marae was Marae Waihau, a Maori tohunga (priest or expert) who lived in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He was renowned for his knowledge of traditional Maori rituals, customs, and lore, and played a significant role in preserving and passing down this knowledge to future generations.

In the realm of Maori literature, the name Marae appears in various traditional stories and legends. For example, the character of Marae-roa is featured in the Maori myth of Maui and the Fish, where he helps the legendary hero Maui catch a giant fish that becomes the North Island of New Zealand.

Marae Kawharu, a prominent Maori scholar and academic, was another notable figure who carried this name. Born in 1927, he dedicated his life to the study and preservation of Maori language, culture, and history, and was a respected authority on Maori traditions and customs.

Finally, Marae Nikora, a Maori artist and carver who lived from 1939 to 2011, was renowned for his intricate and beautiful works of traditional Maori wood carving. His carvings adorned many marae and cultural centers throughout New Zealand, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the Maori people.

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

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

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