Maxwell is a unique and distinctive name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "macel", which means "large book". The name was originally given to scribes or those who were considered wise and learned, as books were associated with knowledge and intelligence in medieval times.
The name Maxwell has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. It was first used as a surname before being adopted as a given name in the 19th century. The most famous bearer of the name is likely James Clerk Maxwell, a renowned Scottish physicist who formulated classical electromagnetic theory in the mid-19th century.
Today, Maxwell is still a popular choice for parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful name for their son. While it has gained some popularity in recent years, it remains relatively rare compared to other names, making it a standout choice for those who want their child's name to be unique and memorable.
In terms of its meaning and significance, Maxwell is associated with intelligence, wisdom, and knowledge. It also has a certain elegance and sophistication to it, thanks in part to its association with the great physicist James Clerk Maxwell. Ultimately, Maxwell is a name that carries a lot of history and meaning behind it, making it an excellent choice for parents who want to give their child a name with real substance and significance.
The name Maxwell has been a rare but consistent choice for parents in the United States over the past century. Between 1917 and 2019, there were a total of 38 babies named Maxwell born in the US. The name saw its peak popularity in the early to mid-20th century, with 6 births recorded in both 1917 and 1923, and 5 births each in 1928 and 1934. After a significant decline in usage over several decades, Maxwell began to regain some traction recently, with 5 births in 2006, 6 births in 2017, and 5 births in 2019.