Germanic origin · shortened form of 'Maximilian' or 'Maxine'
♂ 99% boys♀ 1% girls
#163US 2023
2.2kBirths / yr
↓Falling
157kAll-time births
📅 Since 191200
How to pronounce Max
MAKS
/ˈmæks/ · stress on MAKS · 1 syllable
“greatest”
Germanic origin · Unisex name
What does Max mean and where does it come from?
Max is often a shortened form of 'Maximilian' or 'Maxine'. While traditionally male in many cultures, it has gained popularity as a female name. The name signifies greatness, originating from Latin 'maximus'. It has been used since the Middle Ages and has seen resurgence in modern naming conventions
Cultural significance
Max has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Germanic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of greatest.
Declining — down 6 spots — currently #163 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1920–2023#163 · Top 0.12%
1925
1930
1935
1945
1965
1985
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#163
2,201
▼ down 6 · -8% births
2022
#157
2,388
▲ up 3 · -1% births
2021
#160
2,410
▲ up 2346 · +3444% births
2020
#2506
68
▲ up 3136 · +196% births
2015
#5642
23
▲ up 6643 · +188% births
2010
#12285
8
▲ up 738 · +14% births
2005
#13023
7
▼ down 2265 · -12% births
2000
#10758
8
▼ down 3702 · -33% births
1995
#7056
12
▲ up 531 · +50% births
1985
#7587
8
▼ down 1021 · +60% births
1965
#6566
5
▼ down 2875 · -29% births
1945
#3691
7
▼ down 939 · -30% births
1935
#2752
10
▲ up 615 · +25% births
1930
#3367
8
▼ down 229 · -20% births
1925
#3138
10
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Max
2022Rank #157
2,410
#5123
↗Rising
1920 - 202316 years
The story of Max
Max entered American naming records in 1912 and has been in use for over 112 years. More than 157,031 babies have been named Max since 1912. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3113 in 1920 to #163 in 2023. Max is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Max means "greatest" — a name rooted in Germanic 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 Max?
Max is currently ranked #163 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Max?
Max originates from Germanic tradition. Germanic 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 Max?
Max is a one-syllable name pronounced M AE1 K S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Max sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Max flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Max ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Max
For a sister
Max & Emma♡
Max & Wilta♡
Max & Amelia♡
Max & Frederick♡
For a brother
Max & Robert♡
Max & Voight♡
Max & Frederick♡
Max & Henry♡
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