The name Maxine is a feminine given name that has its origins in the French language. It is derived from the Latin name Maximus, which means "greatest" or "largest". The name Maximus was a common Roman name given to boys, particularly in the imperial families.

Maxine first emerged as a distinct feminine form of the name in the late 19th century. It is believed to have been influenced by the popular French names Maxime and Maximilien, which were also derived from the Latin Maximus.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Maxine can be found in the 1891 novel "The Damnation of Theron Ware" by American author Harold Frederic. In the novel, a character named Maxine appears as the daughter of a Catholic priest.

Throughout the early 20th century, the name Maxine gained popularity in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States and Canada. One of the earliest notable individuals with the name was Maxine Elliott (1868-1940), an American actress and theatrical producer.

Another famous Maxine was Maxine Kumin (1925-2014), an American poet and author who won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1973. She was known for her works that explored themes of nature, family, and feminism.

In the world of entertainment, Maxine Andrews (1916-1995) was an American singer and a member of the popular vocal group, The Andrews Sisters. The group was known for their close harmonies and their hits during World War II, such as "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy".

Maxine Cooper (1916-2002) was a Canadian dancer and choreographer who founded the Maxine Cooper School of Dance in Toronto. She was a pioneer in the field of modern dance in Canada and was awarded the Order of Canada in 1979.

Maxine Peake (born 1974) is a contemporary British actress known for her roles in various television shows and films, including "Shameless", "Silk", and "The Village". She has received numerous awards and nominations for her performances.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals throughout history who have borne the name Maxine. The name has endured as a popular choice for girls, with its roots in the Latin language and its association with strength and greatness.