Maxwell

boyScottish (Old English place name)

Maxwell is a boy name of Scottish (Old English place name) origin, meaning “Mack's well or pool”.

MeaningMack's well or pool
GenderBoy
OriginScottish (Old English place name)
PronunciationMAKS-wel
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia

Meaning and origin of Maxwell

Maxwell is a Scottish surname taken from a place near Kelso in the Borders, recorded as Maccuswell, meaning 'Mack's well' or 'Maccus's pool'. Maccus was probably a Norse personal name. The Maxwells became a powerful Border family, and the surname later turned into a given name. The physicist James Clerk Maxwell, who described electromagnetism, is its best-known bearer. It is often shortened to Max.

Is Maxwell a religious name?

Maxwell has no religious meaning; it is a Scottish place-derived surname used as a first name.

How popular is Maxwell?

A steady, moderately popular choice in the United States and other English-speaking countries.

Gifts with the name Maxwell

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Spellings and variants of Maxwell

MaxwelMax

Names similar to Maxwell

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Maxwell mean?

Maxwell means 'Mack's well or pool'. It is of Scottish (Old English place name) origin.

Does Maxwell have a religious meaning?

Maxwell has no religious meaning; it is a Scottish place-derived surname used as a first name.

How do you pronounce Maxwell?

Maxwell is pronounced MAKS-wel.

Is Maxwell a boy or girl name?

Maxwell is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.