Annamae is a unique and beautiful name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish name Anna, which means "grace" or "favor." The addition of the name Mae, which is short for Mary and also means "bitter sea," creates a distinct and memorable combination.
The name Annamae has a long history in Ireland, dating back to ancient Celtic times. It was often given to girls born into families with strong ties to their faith, as both Anna and Mary are significant figures in Christian religion. Over time, the name spread beyond Ireland's borders and became popular in other English-speaking countries.
Today, Annamae remains a charming and uncommon name choice for parents looking for something distinctive yet meaningful for their daughters. It has a lovely flow when spoken aloud and is easy to spell, making it a practical option as well.
In literature, the name Annamae appears in works such as "The Secret Garden" by Frances Hodgson Burnett, where it is the middle name of one of the main characters, Mary Annamae (or Dickon) Crew. This further contributes to its unique and enchanting allure.
Overall, Annamae is a captivating Irish name with a lovely meaning that has stood the test of time. It is an excellent choice for parents seeking a name that combines elegance, rarity, and historical significance.
The name Annamae experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a notable peak between 1915 and 1923, during which there were over 140 births each year. However, by the mid-1930s, the number of annual births began to decline significantly, dropping below 60 births per year in 1947 and remaining relatively low until a slight resurgence starting in the late 1990s. Overall, there have been 3668 recorded births with the name Annamae from 1896 to 2023.