Maurice

boyLatinChristian

Maurice is a Christian boy name of Latin, via French origin, meaning “Moorish, dark-skinned”.

MeaningMoorish, dark-skinned
GenderBoy
OriginLatin, via French
PronunciationMOR-is
TraditionChristian, Modern & Classic
Used inFrance, United Kingdom, United States

Meaning and origin of Maurice

Maurice comes from the Latin Mauritius, 'Moorish', from Maurus, a person from Mauretania in North Africa, and by extension 'dark-skinned'. Saint Maurice, a third-century Roman soldier and martyr, popularised the name in Europe. Well-known bearers include the composer Maurice Ravel and the singer Maurice Gibb of the Bee Gees. The country of Mauritius was named after a Dutch prince, Maurice of Nassau, who bore the same name.

Is Maurice a Christian name?

Maurice has a Christian background through Saint Maurice, leader of the Theban Legion, though it is now used widely without religious meaning.

How popular is Maurice?

Common among older generations; rarely chosen for babies today.

Gifts with the name Maurice

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Spellings and variants of Maurice

MorrisMauricioMoritzMaurizio

Names similar to Maurice

More Christian boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Maurice mean?

Maurice means 'Moorish, dark-skinned'. It is of Latin, via French origin.

Is Maurice a Christian name?

Maurice has a Christian background through Saint Maurice, leader of the Theban Legion, though it is now used widely without religious meaning.

How do you pronounce Maurice?

Maurice is pronounced MOR-is.

Is Maurice a boy or girl name?

Maurice is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.