What does Maxim mean and where does it come from?
Maxim is traditionally a male name derived from the Latin name 'Maximus', which means 'the greatest'. However, it has been recently adopted as a female name in some cultures. The name is quite popular in Russia and other Eastern European countries. Famous bearers of the name include Maxim Gorky, a p
Cultural significance
Maxim has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Russia-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the greatest..
Peak popularity
Reached #1453 in 2024 — currently #1524 in the US.
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Related Reading
Russia-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How popular is Maxim right now?
Falling — down 71 spots — currently #1524 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1524 | 114 | ▼ down 71 · -9% births |
| 2024 | #1453 | 125 | ▼ down 117 · -12% births |
| 2023 | #1336 | 142 | ▼ down 161 · -18% births |
| 2022 | #1175 | 174 | ▼ down 97 · -12% births |
| 2021 | #1078 | 197 | ▲ up 14073 · +3183% births |
| 2010 | #15151 | 6 | — |
The story of Maxim
Maxim is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2010. With 6,242 total births recorded, Maxim remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #15151 in 2010 to #1336 in 2023. Maxim is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Maxim in 2024:
Maxim by decade
Maxim peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1920s | 13 | |
| 1930s | 10 | |
| 1940s | 39 | |
| 1950s | 25 | |
| 1960s | 32 | |
| 1970s | 36 | |
| 1980s | 181 | |
| 1990s | 598 | |
| 2000s | 2,229 | |
| 2010s ★ | 2,903 | |
| 2020s | 415 | |
💎With 6,242 total births, Maxim is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Maxim?
ANCIENT ROMAN
MaximianusMaximilianaMaximilianusMaximinus
How is Maxim written in other languages?
Ukrainian), Максім
Belarusian
What are the girl versions of Maxim?
Common questions about the name Maxim
What does the name Maxim mean?
Maxim means "The greatest." — a name rooted in Russia 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 Maxim?
Maxim is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Maxim?
Maxim originates from Russia tradition. Russia 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 Maxim?
Maxim is a two-syllable name pronounced MAKS-um. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Maxim a common or rare name?
Maxim is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.