Maynard

Maynard is a masculine English given name, derived from an English surname that itself originated from the Old German given name Meginhard.

Etymology

The root Meginhard combines the Old German elements megin "power, strength" and hart "hard, firm, brave, hardy". This name was borne by a 12th-century saint, a German bishop who worked in Livonia (present-day Latvia and Estonia). Through Norman influence, the name entered England after the Conquest and later stabilized as a surname, which eventually became a given name.

Notable Bearers

Several notable individuals have this name or use it as a middle name:

• Maynard Ferguson (1928–2006), Canadian jazz trumpeter and bandleader, famous for his high-note prowess.
• Maynard Jackson (1938–2003), first African-American mayor of Atlanta, Georgia (served three terms, 1974–1982 and 1990–1994).
• Maynard James Keenan (born 1964), lead singer of the progressive rock bands Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer.
• John Maynard Keynes (1883–1946), English economist, key figure in early 20th-century macroeconomics.
• Maynard Solomon (1930–2020), American musicologist and co-founder of Vanguard Records.
• Maynard Reece (1920–2020), American wildlife artist and nine-time winner of the Federal Duck Stamp competition.
• Maynard Harrison Smith (1911–1984), US Army Air Forces gunner who received the Medal of Honor for heroism in World War II.

Variant forms include Maynerd.

Cultural Significance

Though rare overall, Maynard has enjoyed intermittent usage in English-speaking countries, especially in the 20th century. It is both a standalone given name and a middle name, as seen in prominent figures like John Maynard Keynes. Despite its medieval Germanic roots, it has a modern, somewhat aristocratic feel from its historical use as a surname.

• Meaning: Power, strength; hard, firm, brave
• Origin: Old German, via English surname
• Type: Given name (masculine)
• Usage regions: English-speaking world