Mei is one of the most quintessentially Chinese feminine names, derived from multiple characters with closely related beautiful meanings. The most common is 梅 (méi) meaning plum blossom — one of the most beloved flowers in Chinese tradition. The plum blossom is one of the Three Friends of Winter (松竹梅 sōngzhúméi, pine bamboo plum) and one of the Four Gentlemen (四君子 sìjūnzǐ) in Chinese art alongside the orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum. The plum is celebrated for blooming in late winter before any other flower — its flowers emerging from snow have been a symbol of perseverance, purity, and quiet beauty in Chinese poetry for over two thousand years. The character 美 (měi) means beautiful or beauty itself, one of the most fundamental aesthetic characters in Chinese language. The pinyin Mei spelling represents the standard modern Mandarin romanization. The name has been used in Chinese feminine naming for millennia, particularly favored by parents wanting their daughters to embody both physical beauty and the perseverant, dignified quality of the plum blossom. The name was made culturally significant by countless Chinese historical figures including Mei Lanfang (梅兰芳, 1894-1961), the most famous Chinese opera performer of the twentieth century (though male, he specialized in female roles and his stage name carries deep cultural resonance). Chinese parents are drawn to Mei for its profound Chinese floral heritage, beautiful meaning, and crisp single-syllable elegance.

The root form of Mei is Mei (梅 / 美) — meaning Plum blossom, beautiful.

Mei remains a beloved choice. Timeless appeal across cultures and generations.