What does Maxwell mean and where does it come from?
Maxwell originated as a surname in Scotland and has transitioned into a given name that can be used for both males and females. In the United States, it has gained popularity as a unisex name in recent years. Notable bearers include television personality Maxwell (a female) and various fictional cha
Cultural significance
Maxwell has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the 'mack's well,' meaning the well of the son of 'mack'..
Peak popularity
Reached #182 in 2024 — currently #189 in the US.
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Related Reading
Scotland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Maxwell?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Maxwell?
Maxwell works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Maxwell Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Maxwell John
One syllable · timeless choice
Maxwell Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Maxwell Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Maxwell Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Maxwell Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Maxwell right now?
Declining — down 7 spots — currently #189 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #189 | 1,924 | ▼ down 7 · -5% births |
| 2024 | #182 | 2,024 | stable · +2% births |
| 2023 | #182 | 1,992 | ▼ down 9 · -9% births |
| 2022 | #173 | 2,183 | ▼ down 11 · -8% births |
| 2021 | #162 | 2,380 | ▲ up 2784 · +4307% births |
| 2020 | #2946 | 54 | ▲ up 813 · +35% births |
| 2015 | #3759 | 40 | ▲ up 13244 · +700% births |
| 2010 | #17003 | 5 | ▼ down 5170 · -29% births |
| 2000 | #11833 | 7 | ▲ up 1592 · +40% births |
| 1995 | #13425 | 5 | ▼ down 3199 · -29% births |
| 1990 | #10226 | 7 | — |
The story of Maxwell
Maxwell entered American naming records in 1917 and has been in use for over 107 years. A total of 98,679 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #10226 in 1990 to #182 in 2023. Maxwell is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Maxwell in 2024:
Maxwell by decade
Maxwell peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 72 | |
| 1890s | 131 | |
| 1900s | 230 | |
| 1910s | 1,218 | |
| 1920s | 1,158 | |
| 1930s | 737 | |
| 1940s | 642 | |
| 1950s | 722 | |
| 1960s | 636 | |
| 1970s | 971 | |
| 1980s | 5,829 | |
| 1990s | 20,953 | |
| 2000s | 30,105 | |
| 2010s ★ | 32,725 | |
| 2020s | 6,541 | |
What are good nicknames for Maxwell?
What names sound and feel like Maxwell?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Maxwell also consider these
What are the girl versions of Maxwell?
Common questions about the name Maxwell
What does the name Maxwell mean?
Maxwell means "From the 'Mack's well,' meaning the well of the son of 'Mack'." — a name rooted in Scotland 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 Maxwell?
Maxwell is currently ranked #182 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 Maxwell?
Maxwell originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland 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 Maxwell?
Maxwell is a two-syllable name pronounced MAKSW-el. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Maxwell more of a girl or boy name?
Maxwell is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.