name, noted, distinguished, reputation
名 centers on what something is called and the recognition that comes with it: a name, being noted or distinguished, and the reputation attached to that name.
name; given name
name
famous; well-known
Nagoya (city)
honor; honour; credit; glory; fame; distinction
anonymity; using an assumed name
naming; nominating; designating
name; title
to give one's name (as); to introduce oneself (as)
signature; autograph
real name
masterpiece; masterwork
celebrity; famous person; public figure; big name
name (esp. on a deed, contract, work, etc.); formal name; published name
business card
famous product; special product; speciality; specialty
famous piece of music; excellent song; (musical) masterpiece
famous; noted; eminent; prominent; distinguished; celebrated
nickname
register of names; list of names; roll; register; roster
name; title; appellation; (something) nominal
kana; Japanese syllabaries (i.e. hiragana and katakana)
alias; pseudonym; pen name; nom de plume
place name; toponym
名 combines 夕 (evening) and 口 (mouth). The traditional explanation is that in the dark of evening, one must call out one's name to be recognized.
At dusk (夕), you can't see faces clearly, so you call out your name with your mouth (口) to be identified. 名 is your name and the recognition it brings.
For メイ, imagine a famous person named May who is always called by name: May -> メイ, and her name is known by everyone.