Major
Major is a boy name of Latin origin meaning “Greater”, pronounced MAY-jer. It ranked #670 in the United States in 2025, given to 407 babies, and peaked at #247 in 1889. Common nicknames: Maj, MJ.
How popular is Major in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Major mean, and where does it come from?
Major comes from the Latin maior, "greater," and reached English both as a military rank and as a medieval given name, Mauger, brought over by the Normans. American records hold it from 1880, and it peaked in 1889, when rank names — Major, Captain, Colonel — were given in earnest in the South. Its modern use belongs with King, Royal and Duke, and it has the advantage of being a word people still hear every day. Marshall Taylor, the great cyclist, was known to the world as Major Taylor.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Major
- Major Taylor — American cyclist and world sprint champion, the first Black American world champion in any sport
- Major Harris — American soul singer
Similar Names to Major
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Sibling Name Ideas for Major
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Major mean?
Major is a boy name of Latin origin meaning "Greater." Major comes from the Latin maior, "greater," and reached English both as a military rank and as a medieval given name, Mauger, brought over by the Normans. American records hold it from 1880, and it peaked in 1889, when rank names — Major, Captain, Colonel — were given in earnest in the South.
How do you pronounce Major?
Major is pronounced MAY-jer. Common variations include Majors, Mayer, Mauger.
Is Major a boy name?
Yes, Major is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Maj, MJ.