What does Maxime mean and where does it come from?
Maxime is a feminine form of the male name Maximus, which has Latin origins meaning 'greatest.' It is used predominantly in French-speaking countries and is gaining popularity in North America. The name suggests strength and ambition. Notable individuals include the Canadian actress Maxime de la roi
Cultural significance
Maxime has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of greatest.
Peak popularity
Reached #11060 in 1989 — currently #3761 in the US.
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Related Reading
France-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Maxime?
Maxime works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Maxime Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Maxime Rose
Floral · soft ending
Maxime Mae
Sweet · timeless
Maxime Claire
French influence · crisp
Maxime Jane
Literary · strong
Maxime Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Maxime right now?
Rising fast — up 884 spots — currently #3761 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #3761 | 30 | ▲ up 884 · +36% births |
| 2022 | #4645 | 22 | ▼ down 680 · -19% births |
| 2021 | #3965 | 27 | ▲ up 12717 · +440% births |
| 2005 | #16682 | 5 | ▼ down 3342 · -17% births |
| 2000 | #13340 | 6 | — |
The story of Maxime
Maxime is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1988. With 1,027 total births recorded, Maxime remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #13340 in 2000 to #3761 in 2023. Maxime is used for both genders: 5% female and 95% male.
Names that peaked alongside Maxime in 1989:
Maxime by decade
Maxime peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1920s | 10 | |
| 1970s | 22 | |
| 1980s | 91 | |
| 1990s | 191 | |
| 2000s ★ | 351 | |
| 2010s | 336 | |
| 2020s | 26 | |
💎With 1,027 total births, Maxime is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Maxime?
ANCIENT ROMAN
MaximianusMaximilianaMaximilianusMaximinus
What names sound and feel like Maxime?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Maxime also consider these
How is Maxime written in other languages?
Gender variants of Maxime
Common questions about the name Maxime
What does the name Maxime mean?
Maxime means "greatest" — a name rooted in France 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 Maxime?
Maxime 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 Maxime?
Maxime originates from France tradition. France 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 Maxime?
Maxime is a two-syllable name pronounced M AE0 K S IY1 M. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Maxime a common or rare name?
Maxime is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.