Maximilian is a distinguished and classic male name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman family name Maximus, meaning "greatest." The name has been borne by emperors, saints, and royalty throughout history, lending it an air of nobility and strength. In German, it is pronounced as mahk-see-MEE-lee-ahn (/mak.si.ˈmi.li.an/), while in Spanish, it takes on the pronunciation mahk-see-mee-LYAHN (/mak.si.mi.ˈʎan/). In English-speaking countries, it's commonly pronounced as mak-suh-MIL-yuhn (/mæk.sə.ˈmɪl.jən/). Variations of the name include Max and Maxim, which are popular in their own right. Despite its long history and regal connotations, Maximilian has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States over the years. It reached its peak usage in 2018 when it ranked 432nd with 717 occurrences but has since declined slightly to rank 570th with 511 occurrences in 2023. This timeless name continues to be a strong choice for parents seeking a blend of historical significance and modern appeal for their baby boy.
Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor - Maximilian I, King of the Romans and Holy Roman Emperor from 1508, broke tradition by proclaiming himself elected emperor in 1508 and ran a double government with his father until his death in 1519. |
Maximilian Maria Kolbe was a Polish Catholic priest and Conventual Franciscan friar known for his selfless act of volunteering to die in place of another prisoner at Auschwitz during World War II. |
Maximilian II, Holy Roman Emperor - Maximilian II, a member of the Austrian House of Habsburg, was Holy Roman Emperor from 1564 until his death in 1576, and also held the titles of King of Bohemia, King of Germany, and King of Hungary and Croatia. |
Maximilian II of Bavaria - Maximilian II was the King of Bavaria from 1848 to 1864. |
Maximilian II Emanuel, Elector of Bavaria - Maximilian II, also known as Max Emanuel, was a prominent ruler of Bavaria and the Holy Roman Empire, with a military prowess that shaped his ambitious yet conflicted legacy. |
Maximilian III Joseph, Elector of Bavaria - Maximilian III Joseph, "the much beloved," was a Prince-elector of the Holy Roman Empire and Duke of Bavaria from 1745 to 1777, and his death led to the outbreak of the War of Bavarian Succession. |
Maximilian Henry of Bavaria, Archbishop-Elector of Cologne and Bishop of Hildesheim and Liège, was known for his efforts to limit the authority of the Holy Roman Emperor and his involvement in the Franco-Dutch War. |
Maximilian III, Archduke of Austria - Maximilian III of Austria, also known as Maximilian of Poland, was the Archduke of Further Austria from 1612 until his passing. |
Maximilian I, Prince of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen was a German nobleman who ruled as the third Prince of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen from 1681 until his death. |
Maximilian Wengler was a German general in the Wehrmacht during World War II and a recipient of the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords. |
Maximilian of Hesse-Kassel was a prince of Hesse-Kassel and a high-ranking military leader in the Holy Roman Empire. |
Maximilian Mauff - Maximilian "Max" Mauff is a German actor known for his roles in various films and television shows. |
Maximilian Schmidt was a renowned German novelist and humorist. |
Maximilian Philipp Hieronymus, Duke of Bavaria-Leuchtenberg - Maximilian Philipp Hieronymus, a German prince, served as the Duke of Bavaria-Leuchtenberg and regent of Bavaria during the late 17th century. |
Maximilian Emanuel of Württemberg-Winnental, a loyal supporter and volunteer in the army of Charles XII of Sweden, was known for his close friendship with the king. |