Etymology & Historical Origin of the Baby Name Maxwell

Maxwell is essentially derived from two different origins. The first is the transferred use of a Scottish surname originating as a place name near the River Tweed (southeast of Edinburgh and near the English border). The land on the Tweed River was granted to a medieval Saxon lord named Maccus and contained a salmon stream that was called “Maccus’ Wael” (“wael” being the Olde English word for ‘well’ or ‘pool’). The second origin comes from the name Maccus which is derived from the Old Norse/Viking influence “Makkr” which was another form of the Latin “Magnus” meaning ‘great.’ The surname dates back to the 12th century, but the usage of Maxwell as a forename is much more modern.

All About the Baby Name – Maxwell

Personality

OF THE BOY NAME MAXWELL

The number Nine personality represents the completion or ending of the cycle, and a need for perfection. This is the personality that moves from "self" to a greater understanding and compassion for the human condition and the world order. They want to make the world a better place. Nines are capable of great spiritual and humanitarian achievements. They are courageous and fearless, able to fight great battles on behalf of worthy causes. These personalities will not tolerate injustice. They are compassionate people with a strong sensitivity to others. They are able to both educate and inspire. Friendships and relationships are the lifeblood to the Nine, and they place a high value on love and affection. Nines are often exceptionally gifted artistically, and they have a keen imagination and enterprising mind.

Popularity

OF THE BOY NAME MAXWELL

The “great” Max names are making a triumphant return on the American popularity charts right now, and Maxwell is along for the ride. While Maxwell has been in use as a male given name for over a century, it was only bestowed very moderately before going out of style entirely by 1960s. Fast forward to the 1980s when Maxwell displays a monumental comeback and advances over 500 positions on the charts in one decade alone. What was once considered passé is now red hot, and the name has soared back into vogue. Once thought to sound overconfident, American parents now embrace the Max names of the world. Yes, my son IS great, they scream unabashedly. Today, the short version of Max is the most popular of the names, followed by Maxwell. The more erudite names of Maximus and Maximilian follow behind. We’ll have to see if the Max names persist in popularity in the coming decade, but right now, no one is shying away from this greatness.

Quick Facts

ON MAXWELL

GENDER:

Boy

ORIGIN:

English

NUMBER OF SYLLABLES:

2

RANKING POPULARITY:

108

PRONUNCIATION:

MACKS-well

SIMPLE MEANING:

The pool of Maccus, Great

Characteristics

OF MAXWELL

Multi-talented

Intuitive

Oneness

Idealistic

Philanthropy

Independent

Perfection

Cultural References to the Baby Name – Maxwell

Literary Characters

OF THE BABY NAME MAXWELL

We cannot find any significant literary characters by the name of Maxwell

Childrens Books

ON THE BABY NAME MAXWELL

We cannot find any childrens books with the first name Maxwell


Popular Songs

ON MAXWELL

Maxwell's Silver Hammer
a song by The Beatles

Famous People

NAMED MAXWELL

Maxwell (musician)
Maxwell Anderson (playwright)
Maxwell Caulfield (actor)

Children of Famous People

NAMED MAXWELL

Lance Armstrong; Jessica Simpson;

Historic Figures

WITH THE NAME MAXWELL

We cannot find any historically significant people with the first name Maxwell