Origin and Meaning of Maxwell
Meaning & Origin
Great stream or the great spring
Origin: English - Derived from the Old English elements 'mæx' meaning 'great' and 'wella' meaning 'spring' or 'stream'.
Interesting Facts
- Maxwell was initially a surname derived from a location in Scotland, specifically referring to a place near the River Max. It has become widely used as a given name.
- In Scottish culture, the name is quite prominent and is often associated with families that have historical significance in the region, particularly in the Lowlands.
- Notable bearers of the name include Maxwell Smart, the fictional secret agent from the 1960s television series 'Get Smart,' and various historical figures like James Clerk Maxwell, the Scottish physicist known for his work in electromagnetism.
- In the United States, Maxwell has been steadily increasing in popularity as a first name since the late 20th century, ranking in the top 100 names for boys in the 21st century.
- Variations of the name include Max, Maximilian, and Maximus, which also convey the meaning of greatness.