Faye
Faye is a girl name of English origin meaning “Fairy, loyalty”, pronounced FAY. It ranked #515 in the United States in 2025, given to 579 babies, and peaked at #146 in 1934. Common nicknames: Fay, Fifi.
How popular is Faye in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Faye mean, and where does it come from?
Faye has dual origins, deriving from both the Middle English word "faie" meaning "fairy" and the Old French "fei" meaning "faith" or "loyalty." The name carries an enchanting, otherworldly quality that connects it to the fairy tradition of English and Celtic folklore. Morgan le Fay, the powerful enchantress of Arthurian legend, is perhaps the most famous association. Faye emerged as a given name in the 19th century and gained Hollywood glamour through actress Faye Dunaway in the 1960s and 70s. Its brevity, elegance, and magical undertones have made it increasingly popular as both a first name and a middle name.
How is Faye used around the world?
Faye is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 2+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Faye?
Famous People Named Faye
- Faye Dunaway — American Academy Award-winning actress
- Faye Wong — Chinese singer and actress
- Faye Wattleton — American reproductive rights activist
Similar Names to Faye
If you like Faye, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Faye
Looking for names that pair well with Faye? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Faye mean?
Faye is a girl name of English origin meaning "Fairy, loyalty." Faye has dual origins, deriving from both the Middle English word "faie" meaning "fairy" and the Old French "fei" meaning "faith" or "loyalty." The name carries an enchanting, otherworldly quality that connects it to the fairy tradition of English and Celtic folklore.
How do you pronounce Faye?
Faye is pronounced FAY. Common variations include Fay, Fae, Fei.
Is Faye a girl name?
Yes, Faye is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Fay, Fifi.