Maurice is a classic, timeless given name of Latin origin, meaning "dark-skinned" or "moorish." It was introduced to France by the Normans and has been popular throughout Europe for centuries. In England, Maurice was especially favored during the Victorian era. The name gained prominence in literature through characters like Maurice Polydore (in "Tom Brown's School Days") and Maurice Bendrix (in Greene's "The End of the Affair"). It is also associated with historical figures such as Maurice of Saxony, a 14th-century German nobleman. Despite its rich history, Maurice remains somewhat underused today, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a distinctive yet traditional name.
"Maurice saw its peak popularity from 1912 to 1920 with over 50 births each year, reaching a high of 63 births in 1922 and 1924. However, it declined significantly post-WWII, dropping below 30 births per year by the late 1950s, and below 20 by the mid-1970s. Since then, it has remained relatively uncommon, with fewer than 20 births annually."