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Maxwell

Maxwell is derived from a Scottish surname that originated as a place name meaning 'Mack's spring' or 'Mack's stream' in Old English. The name is associated with the Maxwells of Caerlaverock, a noble family in Scotland. Over time, it has gained popularity as a given name due to its distinguished and classic sound.

IPA: /ˈmæksˌwɛl/ · Simplified: MAK-swəl

Male
English
Scottish
Scotland
classic
strong
noble
intellectual

65/100

Popularity

Rising

10-Year Trend

5

Countries

2020

Peak Year

Meaning of Maxwell

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

Maxwell is derived from a Scottish surname that originated as a place name meaning 'Mack's spring' or 'Mack's stream' in Old English. The name is associated with the Maxwells of Caerlaverock, a noble family in Scotland. Over time, it has gained popularity as a given name due to its distinguished and classic sound.

Does Maxwell flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Maxwell

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈmæksˌwɛl/ · Simplified: MAK-swəl

Nicknames for Maxwell

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Max
Wells
Maxie
Maxo

Maxwell name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

70

United Kingdom

68

United States

66

Canada

65

Australia

60

New Zealand

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Max

Macswell

Maxy

Names like Maxwell

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Maxwell

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

People named Maxwell are often associated with intelligence and ambition. They tend to have a strong, charismatic presence and a natural leadership quality. Maxwell is viewed as a dependable and thoughtful individual, often striving for success and excellence in their endeavors.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Maxwell

Well-known figures who share this name.

J

James Clerk Maxwell

Scottish scientist known for his formulation of the classical theory of electromagnetic radiation (1831-1879)

Frequently asked questions about Maxwell

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Maxwell mean?
Here is the meaning behind Maxwell: Maxwell is derived from a Scottish surname that originated as a place name meaning 'Mack's spring' or 'Mack's stream' in Old English. The name is associated with the Maxwells of Caerlaverock, a noble family in Scotland. Over time, it has gained popularity as a given name due to its distinguished and classic sound.
Is Maxwell a boy or girl name?
Maxwell is traditionally a boy's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Maxwell?
Maxwell scores 65/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2020.
What are good nicknames for Maxwell?
Popular nicknames for Maxwell: Max, Wells, Maxie, Maxo.
What names are similar to Maxwell?
Names similar to Maxwell: Maximilian, Alexander, Mitchell, Samuel — close in sound, origin, or style.

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