Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Maxine”

Origin and Historical Background

Maxine is a feminine given name that derives from the Latin name Maximus, which means “greatest.” The name became popular in the English-speaking world in the early 20th century. Its rise in usage coincides with a time when parents were beginning to explore more extravagant and strong names for their daughters, moving beyond the more traditional names that had been in vogue.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

Maxine is imbued with connotations of strength, grandeur, and excellence. Derived from Maximus, the name historically symbolizes superiority and outstanding qualities. Its cultural significance has been bolstered by its association with influential and powerful women over the decades. Emerging at a time when women’s roles in society were expanding, the name Maxine carries a sense of radical change and fearless spirit.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Maxine

1. Maxine Waters

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Maxine Waters is a prominent U.S. Congresswoman known for her outspoken advocacy on issues such as civil rights, social justice, and economic equality. She has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1991 and is a leading figure in the Democratic Party.
• Cultural Impact: Maxine Waters has become a symbol of fearless political advocacy and has inspired many with her strong stance on controversial issues.

2. Maxine Hong Kingston

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Maxine Hong Kingston is an acclaimed Chinese-American author best known for her works “The Woman Warrior” and “China Men.” Her writing often explores the intersection of her Chinese heritage and American identity.
• Cultural Impact: Kingston’s contributions to literature have provided a voice for Asian-American women, addressing themes of identity, culture, and resilience.

Usage Over Time

Maxine saw a surge in popularity in the United States during the 1920s and remained relatively popular through the mid-20th century. The name peaked in popularity in the 1930s and 1940s. Its usage has decreased somewhat in recent decades, but it remains a classic choice that is both unique and historically significant.

Pronunciation Guide

Maxine is pronounced as “MAX-een.” The first syllable “Max” is stressed, and it rhymes with “tax.” The second syllable “een” is pronounced with a long “e,” resembling the word “keen.”

Biblical Context

Maxine does not have a direct biblical reference, as it is derived from the Latin name Maximus. However, its meaning “greatest” can be paralleled with themes of greatness and excellence found throughout biblical texts. For example, in the New Testament, Jesus speaks about greatness in the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 18:4), which emphasizes humility and service.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

In numerology, the name Maxine resonates with the number 3, which signifies creativity, social interaction, and optimism.

Variations

Variations of the name include Maxene and Maxina. Masculine counterparts include Maximus and Maxwell.

Cultural Variants

The name has cultural variants in different languages, such as Maxima in Spanish and Maxime in French. 

Popularity Information

According to the Social Security Administration (ssa.gov), Maxine was most popular in the United States in the 1920s through the 1940s. In recent years, it has seen a resurgence in popularity as parents seek out classic names with strong meanings.

Conclusion

The name Maxine carries a powerful meaning of “greatest,” making it a fitting choice for parents seeking an elegant yet strong name for their daughter. With its rich history, cultural significance, and association with prominent figures, Maxine offers a timeless and meaningful option.