Alex
Alex is a unisex name of Greek origin meaning “defender, protector.” It ranked #232 in the United States in 2025. A short form of Alexander, Alexandra and Alexis that is also given as a name in its own right, to boys and girls alike.
Torn between Alex and another name? Ask family and friends to vote
how do you pronounce Alex?
AL-iks
where does the name Alex come from?
A short form of Alexander, Alexandra and other names beginning with Alex, such as Alexis. They share the Greek element alexein, to defend or protect; Alexander itself is from the Greek Alexandros, he who wards off men.
It goes back to the Greek alexein, to defend.
how popular is this name?
Alex has appeared in the US top 1,000 in 146 years since 1880. It peaked at #47 in 1995, and ranked #232 in 2025.
See the milestone years
| Year | Rank |
|---|---|
| 2025 | #232 |
| 2024 | #205 |
| 2023 | #203 |
| 2022 | #189 |
| 2021 | #192 |
| 2020 | #183 |
| 2019 | #165 |
| 2018 | #153 |
| 2017 | #151 |
| 2016 | #146 |
| 2010 | #93 |
| 2000 | #62 |
| 1995 | #47 |
| 1990 | #59 |
| 1980 | #156 |
| 1970 | #191 |
| 1960 | #226 |
| 1950 | #244 |
| 1940 | #208 |
| 1930 | #180 |
| 1920 | #142 |
| 1910 | #127 |
| 1900 | #120 |
| 1890 | #111 |
| 1880 | #92 |
Source: SSA National Baby Names Dataset (through 2025). Years absent from the table are years Alex fell outside the top 1,000.
the history of Alex
Alex is now established as an independent given name for both men and women. In the United States it has been in the top 1,000 for boys every year since 1880; it ranked in the top 100 from 1984 to 2012, peaked at number 47 in 1995 and stood at 232nd in 2025.
who are famous people named Alex?
- Alex Morgan (soccer player)
- Alex Trebek (television personality)
- Alex Ferguson (football manager)
- Alex Haley (writer)
what are the nicknames and variants of Alex?
Nicknames
Variants around the world
what names are similar to Alex?
what names go well with Alex?
Sibling names that share Alex's rhythm and register without echoing it too closely.
quick answers about Alex
What does the name Alex mean?
Alex means “defender, protector”.
What is the origin of the name Alex?
Alex comes from the Greek naming tradition. Related forms include Alec, Alyx, Alix and Xander.
How popular is the name Alex?
Alex ranked #232 in the US in 2025, according to Social Security data. Its best year was 1995, at #47, and it has spent 146 years in the top 1,000 since 1880.
Is Alex a boy or girl name?
Alex is a unisex name, used for both boys and girls.
How do you pronounce Alex?
Alex is pronounced AL-iks, with 2 syllables.
Last updated · Curated by HushName editorial
love Alex? get 10 more names curated for your family.
Popularity rankings and meanings are just the starting point. Our AI consultant finds names that match your heritage, style, and what matters most to you.
Completely free. No credit card required.
Start your free session