Mae sits next to 3 phonetic neighbors — May, Maye, and Mei are the closest matches by sound. Most share Mae's English-origin cluster, so the rhythm and vowel shape carry across the list.
You searched for names like
"pearl"
"God is my strength"
"supplanter, one who follows"
"alluring, enchanting"
"free person"
"loved, valued"
"fair, smooth, white wave"
"son of Finlay (surname origin)"
"beautiful, attractive"
"rival, eager"
"one who works the earth"
"clear (as in clear skies)"
"bent river"
"blessed strife"
"white or bright settlement"
"clearing with oak trees"
"laurel tree; bay laurel"
"angel, heavenly messenger"
"halo of light around the moon"
"wonderful, admirable"
Similar sound: These names share phonetic patterns with Mae — similar vowel sounds, consonant clusters, or rhythm.
Shared roots: Several names on this list have Greek via Latin origins, giving them the same cultural heritage as Mae.
Rhythm: Mae is a 1-syllable name. Names with the same syllable count tend to feel interchangeable when you're narrowing your list.