Max

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Max

Gender Boy
Origin Latin
Letters 3
Syllables 1
Pronunciation maks

Max, which has 3 letters and 1 syllable, is a male name of Latin origin.

Meaning of Max

Greatest

Max is a popular name of Germanic origin, derived from the Latin “maximus” meaning “greatest”. It can also be associated with the Latin “maxilla” meaning “jaw”. The name Max is usually given to boys but is also occasionally used for girls.

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(2.9/5 from 13 votes)
Meaning Greatest
Origin Latin
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #175 in 2024 Declining
Rarity (US) Moderate (Top 250)
Era Modern (peaked 2011)

Background & History of The Name Max

The name 'Max' is a short and powerful name that has been popular in various cultures throughout history. It is derived from the Latin word "Maximus," which means "the greatest" or "the largest." Max has been widely used as a given name for boys, and it has strong associations with strength, leadership, and charisma. It is a versatile name that suits individuals of different backgrounds and personalities.

In ancient Rome, the name Max was often given to men of high social status or those who excelled in military or athletic pursuits. The name's popularity continued to grow during the Middle Ages, when it became a common name among European royalty and nobility. Over time, Max evolved into a popular given name in various countries, including Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, and English-speaking countries.

One famous Max is Max Planck, a German theoretical physicist who is considered the father of quantum theory. His groundbreaking research made significant contributions to the understanding of energy quantization, revolutionizing the field of physics. Another notable figure is Max Ernst, a prominent 20th-century surrealist artist who pioneered various techniques in painting and sculpture.

In recent years, Max has gained popularity as a contemporary name choice for boys in many parts of the world. It is often seen as a strong and masculine name, evoking a sense of confidence and determination. The simplicity and timeless appeal of Max have also led to its use as a popular nickname or shortened version of longer names such as Maximilian or Maxwell.

In summary, the name Max holds a rich historical significance and is associated with qualities like strength, leadership, and achievement. Its versatility and simplicity have contributed to its enduring popularity, making it a name that continues to resonate with parents worldwide.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Max over the years.

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Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Max.

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