Moxie Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: MOX-ee //ˈmɒksi//
Origin: English; Latin
Meaning: English: spirited; Latin: myrtle
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Moxie is believed to have originated from the American English slang term 'moxie,' which emerged in the early 20th century. The term itself is thought to derive from the name of a popular soft drink, Moxie, created in the 1880s.
The drink was named after a Native American word meaning 'to have courage' or 'to be bold,' which reflects the qualities associated with the name. The word 'moxie' has since evolved to signify energy, determination, and spiritedness, capturing a sense of vivacity and resilience.
Historically, the term gained traction in American culture during the 1920s, particularly in the context of the burgeoning feminist movement, where it was used to describe women who exhibited independence and assertiveness. This cultural backdrop contributed to the name's appeal, as it encapsulated a spirit of empowerment.
The soft drink itself, Moxie, was marketed with a focus on its unique flavor and invigorating properties, further solidifying the association of the name with vitality and strength. Moxie has also been linked to various cultural references, including literature and media, where it is often used to denote characters who embody courage and tenacity.
The name's connotation of spiritedness has allowed it to resonate within various contexts, from literature to popular culture. While not traditionally used as a given name, its adoption as such reflects a broader trend of using unique and spirited names that convey a sense of character and individuality.
The name Moxie, therefore, stands as a testament to the enduring qualities of bravery and vivacity, rooted in its historical and cultural significance.
Fictional characters named Moxie
Sibling suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Moxie was first seen in the United States in 2006. Moxie has ranked as high as #1306 nationally, which occurred in 2021, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Colorado, and Indiana. In the past 5 years the name Moxie has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Moxie (2023)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 8 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 2006 | 10 |
| 2007 | 16 |
| 2008 | 21 |
| 2009 | 17 |
| 2010 | 23 |
| 2011 | 22 |
| 2012 | 33 |
| 2013 | 39 |
| 2014 | 37 |
| 2015 | 36 |
| 2016 | 47 |
| 2017 | 34 |
| 2018 | 56 |
| 2019 | 54 |
| 2020 | 43 |
| 2021 | 57 |
| 2022 | 55 |
| 2023 | 39 |
| 2024 | 35 |