All about the name

Murice

Male

« Maurice is a Latin-origin masculine given name derived from 'maurus', meaning 'dark' or 'swarthy'. It gained popularity during the Middle Ages through Saint Maurice, a prominent Christian martyr associated with strength and courage. Today, it's less common but still used, particularly in France and French-speaking countries. »

#18642 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Maurice is a masculine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Roman family name Maurus, which was itself derived from the Latin word "maurus," meaning "dark" or "swarthy." This likely referred to someone with a dark complexion or hair color. The name Maurice became popular during the Middle Ages in Europe through the spread of Christianity. Saint Maurice was a prominent early Christian martyr who served in the Roman army. According to legend, Maurice and his entire legion were executed for refusing to worship pagan gods. His bravery and faith made him a popular saint, and his name became associated with strength and courage. In France, the name Maurice was particularly common during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It was also a popular choice among English-speaking countries during this period, although its popularity has since declined. Today, Maurice is still used as a given name, but it is less common than it once was. It is more frequently encountered in France and other French-speaking countries, as well as in some English-speaking nations where there may be a connection to French culture or language. Overall, the name Maurice has a long and rich history that spans centuries and continents. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Rome, while its popularity can be attributed to the veneration of Saint Maurice during the Middle Ages. Despite its decline in recent decades, Maurice remains an enduring and distinctive name with a strong connection to the past.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Murice since 1880

Total births
77
Total since 1880
Peak year
1975
9 births
in 1991
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years