Holding steady.
Popularity of Mayu since 1990
Babies named Mayu per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 58 |
| 2000s | 75 |
| 2010s | 49 |
| 2020s | 22 |
Meaning & origin
Mayu is a Japanese name with a flexible meaning rooted in the kanji characters chosen for it, often 'true, reality' or 'evening, dusk'. While it has never broken into the U.S. top 1000, it saw a small peak of interest in 2005, and its usage has remained stable since its first recorded appearance in 1990. The name is primarily feminine in Japan and carries a soft, melodic sound that appeals to parents seeking a concise cross-cultural choice. The trajectory of Mayu indicates a steady, niche presence rather than a rising trend, making it a distinctive option for those connected to Japanese heritage or aesthetics.
Mayu is a name of Japanese origin, though its precise meaning is debated depending on the kanji characters used. It can mean 'truth, reality' (真由) or 'evening, dusk' (真夕), among other combinations. The name has been used in Japan for recent decades, gaining some international visibility through popular culture. It remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries.
Sibling names for Mayu
Names that share Mayu's style, for a brother or sister.

