Aimee

Aimee is a feminine given name of French origin. It is the English form of Aimée, derived from the French verb aimer, meaning “to love.” As such, the name is commonly interpreted as “beloved” or “loved one.” In English usage it is typically pronounced AY-mee. In French, the name is pronounced eh-MAY, with the acute accent over the e in Aimée.

Variants and related names include Aimée (the original French spelling), Aimee (the common English spelling without the accent), and the masculine form Aimé. Related given names in different languages include Amy and Amie, which share the same root meaning.

Usage and popularity: The name has appeared in English-speaking countries since at least the 19th century and gained particular popularity in the late 20th century. It remains in use today, though it is less common than it once was. Some parents choose Aimée to preserve a French flair or to honor its meaning.

Notable people named Aimee include American singer-songwriter Aimee Mann; actress Aimee Teegarden; actress Aimee Garcia; evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson; and Paralympian and actress Aimee Mullins. In literature and media, Aimee is used as a female given name for fictional characters in various novels and television series, reflecting its continuing presence in contemporary naming practices.

See also: Aimée, the French form; Amy, a related name.