What does Maverick mean and where does it come from?
Maverick is a name derived from the English word that originally referred to an unbranded calf. Over time, it has come to symbolize independence and free-spiritedness. Although primarily used as a male name, its use for females has increased in modern times, influenced by pop culture and television.
Cultural significance
Maverick has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of independent, nonconformist.
Peak popularity
Reached #49 in 2020 — currently #37 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Maverick?
Maverick works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Maverick Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Maverick Rose
Floral · soft ending
Maverick Mae
Sweet · timeless
Maverick Claire
French influence · crisp
Maverick Jane
Literary · strong
Maverick Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Maverick right now?
Holding steady — currently #37 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #37 | 6,979 | ▲ up 3 · -1% births |
| 2022 | #40 | 7,047 | ▲ up 7 · +7% births |
| 2021 | #47 | 6,605 | ▲ up 2 · +8% births |
| 2020 | #49 | 6,088 | ▲ up 135 · +168% births |
| 2015 | #184 | 2,270 | ▲ up 323 · +346% births |
| 2010 | #507 | 509 | ▲ up 145 · +54% births |
| 2005 | #652 | 331 | ▲ up 211 · +80% births |
| 2000 | #863 | 184 | ▲ up 47 · +24% births |
| 1995 | #910 | 148 | ▲ up 373 · +97% births |
| 1990 | #1283 | 75 | ▲ up 1735 · +369% births |
| 1985 | #3018 | 16 | ▲ up 171 · +14% births |
| 1980 | #3189 | 14 | ▲ up 634 · +56% births |
| 1975 | #3823 | 9 | ▼ down 75 · +13% births |
| 1970 | #3748 | 8 | ▼ down 1149 · -27% births |
| 1965 | #2599 | 11 | — |
The story of Maverick
Maverick entered American naming records in 1957 and has been in use for over 67 years. Its peak popularity was #49 in 2020. A total of 37,632 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1167 in 1960 to #37 in 2023. Maverick is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Maverick in 2020:
Maverick by decade
Maverick peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 182 | |
| 1960s | 160 | |
| 1970s | 76 | |
| 1980s | 239 | |
| 1990s | 1,351 | |
| 2000s | 3,321 | |
| 2010s ★ | 26,150 | |
| 2020s | 6,153 | |
What are good nicknames for Maverick?
What names sound and feel like Maverick?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Maverick also consider these
Common questions about the name Maverick
What does the name Maverick mean?
Maverick means "independent, nonconformist" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Maverick?
Maverick is currently ranked #37 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Maverick have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Maverick?
Maverick originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Maverick?
Maverick is a two-syllable name pronounced M AE1 V ER0 IH0 K. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Maverick trending right now?
Maverick is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.