Maure: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name means “moor, dark-skinned".It derives from the Greek word "AMAURÓS > MAURUS > Mōrus".
Maure has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Greek roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name means “moor, dark-skinned" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Maure
Quick facts about Maure
Origin
Greek
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name means “moor, dark-skinned.” It is a name of ethnic origin, derived from the Latin “Maurus,” meaning “belonging to the people of the Moors,” who lived in the region of Africa called “Mauretania,” which extended from Algeria and came to Morocco and northern Mauritania. Probably the Romans gave them this name because of the dark color of the skin, in fact, amaurós (ἀμαυρός) in Greek means “moor, dark,” also the meaning of amáurosi (αμαύρωση), browning, burnishing (burned or tanned). Saint Maurus was the first disciple of St. Benedict of Nursia (512–584). The Life recounts the long journey of St. Maurus and his companions from Italy to France, accompanied by many adventures and miracles as St. Maurus is transformed from the youthful disciple of Benedict into a powerful, miracle-working holy man in his own right.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
AMAURÓS > MAURUS > Mōrus
How to Pronounce Maure
Maure is pronounced /ˈmɔː.rɛ/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Maur-e
Say it like: "MAUR-E"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Maure is predominantly used in french speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
french
Frequently Asked Questions About Maure
What does the name Maure mean?
Maure means "This name means “moor, dark-skinned.” It is a name of ethnic origin, derived from the Latin “Maurus,” meaning “belonging to the people of the Moors,” who lived in the region of Africa called “Mauretania,” which extended from Algeria and came to Morocco and northern Mauritania. Probably the Romans gave them this name because of the dark color of the skin, in fact, amaurós (ἀμαυρός) in Greek means “moor, dark,” also the meaning of amáurosi (αμαύρωση), browning, burnishing (burned or tanned). Saint Maurus was the first disciple of St. Benedict of Nursia (512–584). The Life recounts the long journey of St. Maurus and his companions from Italy to France, accompanied by many adventures and miracles as St. Maurus is transformed from the youthful disciple of Benedict into a powerful, miracle-working holy man in his own right.". The name comes from AMAURÓS > MAURUS > Mōrus. In its original form, the name derives from amaurós (ἀμαυρός) amáurosi (αμαύρωση). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Maure for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name means “moor, dark-skinned.” It is a name of ethnic origin, derived from the Latin “Maurus,” meaning “belonging to the people of the Moors,” who lived in the region of Africa called “Mauretania,” which extended from Algeria and came to Morocco and northern Mauritania. Probably the Romans gave them this name because of the dark color of the skin, in fact, amaurós (ἀμαυρός) in Greek means “moor, dark,” also the meaning of amáurosi (αμαύρωση), browning, burnishing (burned or tanned). Saint Maurus was the first disciple of St. Benedict of Nursia (512–584). The Life recounts the long journey of St. Maurus and his companions from Italy to France, accompanied by many adventures and miracles as St. Maurus is transformed from the youthful disciple of Benedict into a powerful, miracle-working holy man in his own right." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Maure's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Maure?
Maure is a greek name. The name traces back to AMAURÓS > MAURUS > Mōrus. The original form amaurós (ἀμαυρός) amáurosi (αμαύρωση) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to french naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name means “moor, dark-skinned.” It is a name of ethnic origin, derived from the Latin “Maurus,” meaning “belonging to the people of the Moors,” who lived in the region of Africa called “Mauretania,” which extended from Algeria and came to Morocco and northern Mauritania. Probably the Romans gave them this name because of the dark color of the skin, in fact, amaurós (ἀμαυρός) in Greek means “moor, dark,” also the meaning of amáurosi (αμαύρωση), browning, burnishing (burned or tanned). Saint Maurus was the first disciple of St. Benedict of Nursia (512–584). The Life recounts the long journey of St. Maurus and his companions from Italy to France, accompanied by many adventures and miracles as St. Maurus is transformed from the youthful disciple of Benedict into a powerful, miracle-working holy man in his own right." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Maure a boy or girl name?
Maure is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Maure has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name means “moor, dark-skinned.” It is a name of ethnic origin, derived from the Latin “Maurus,” meaning “belonging to the people of the Moors,” who lived in the region of Africa called “Mauretania,” which extended from Algeria and came to Morocco and northern Mauritania. Probably the Romans gave them this name because of the dark color of the skin, in fact, amaurós (ἀμαυρός) in Greek means “moor, dark,” also the meaning of amáurosi (αμαύρωση), browning, burnishing (burned or tanned). Saint Maurus was the first disciple of St. Benedict of Nursia (512–584). The Life recounts the long journey of St. Maurus and his companions from Italy to France, accompanied by many adventures and miracles as St. Maurus is transformed from the youthful disciple of Benedict into a powerful, miracle-working holy man in his own right." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Maure?
Maure is pronounced "/ˈmɔː.rɛ/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Maure is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Maure can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root AMAURÓS > MAURUS > Mōrus influences how Maure sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Maure?
Maure is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Maure offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Maure's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name means “moor, dark-skinned.” It is a name of ethnic origin, derived from the Latin “Maurus,” meaning “belonging to the people of the Moors,” who lived in the region of Africa called “Mauretania,” which extended from Algeria and came to Morocco and northern Mauritania. Probably the Romans gave them this name because of the dark color of the skin, in fact, amaurós (ἀμαυρός) in Greek means “moor, dark,” also the meaning of amáurosi (αμαύρωση), browning, burnishing (burned or tanned). Saint Maurus was the first disciple of St. Benedict of Nursia (512–584). The Life recounts the long journey of St. Maurus and his companions from Italy to France, accompanied by many adventures and miracles as St. Maurus is transformed from the youthful disciple of Benedict into a powerful, miracle-working holy man in his own right." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Maure holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Maure commonly used?
Maure is used primarily in french naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Maure found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name means “moor, dark-skinned.” It is a name of ethnic origin, derived from the Latin “Maurus,” meaning “belonging to the people of the Moors,” who lived in the region of Africa called “Mauretania,” which extended from Algeria and came to Morocco and northern Mauritania. Probably the Romans gave them this name because of the dark color of the skin, in fact, amaurós (ἀμαυρός) in Greek means “moor, dark,” also the meaning of amáurosi (αμαύρωση), browning, burnishing (burned or tanned). Saint Maurus was the first disciple of St. Benedict of Nursia (512–584). The Life recounts the long journey of St. Maurus and his companions from Italy to France, accompanied by many adventures and miracles as St. Maurus is transformed from the youthful disciple of Benedict into a powerful, miracle-working holy man in his own right." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Maure into their naming traditions. A child named Maure will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Maure is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Maure?
Maure carries associations with RELIGION (SAINTS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name means “moor, dark-skinned.” It is a name of ethnic origin, derived from the Latin “Maurus,” meaning “belonging to the people of the Moors,” who lived in the region of Africa called “Mauretania,” which extended from Algeria and came to Morocco and northern Mauritania. Probably the Romans gave them this name because of the dark color of the skin, in fact, amaurós (ἀμαυρός) in Greek means “moor, dark,” also the meaning of amáurosi (αμαύρωση), browning, burnishing (burned or tanned). Saint Maurus was the first disciple of St. Benedict of Nursia (512–584). The Life recounts the long journey of St. Maurus and his companions from Italy to France, accompanied by many adventures and miracles as St. Maurus is transformed from the youthful disciple of Benedict into a powerful, miracle-working holy man in his own right." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Maure originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Maure sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Maure often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In french communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.