Alex
Alex is a boy name of Greek origin meaning “Defender of the people”, pronounced AL-eks. It ranked #232 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,515 babies, and peaked at #47 in 1995. Common nicknames: Al, Lex.
How popular is Alex in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Alex mean, and where does it come from?
Alex is the widely used short form of Alexander and Alexandra, both descended from the Greek "Alexandros," meaning "defender of the people." Its gender-neutral flexibility and easy familiarity have made it one of the most commonly used standalone names, not just a nickname, across the English-speaking world. Alex has been carried by countless notable figures in every field, from politics to sports to entertainment. Its brevity and universality continue to make it a practical, timeless choice for parents.
How is Alex used around the world?
Alex is used in 5 languages worldwide, with 10+ international variants.
TypeUnisex name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Alex?
Famous People Named Alex
- Alex Trebek — Canadian-American television host
- Alex Morgan — American soccer player
- Alex Rodriguez — American baseball player
Similar Names to Alex
If you like Alex, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Alex
Looking for names that pair well with Alex? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Alex mean?
Alex is a boy name of Greek origin meaning "Defender of the people." Alex is the widely used short form of Alexander and Alexandra, both descended from the Greek "Alexandros," meaning "defender of the people." Its gender-neutral flexibility and easy familiarity have made it one of the most commonly used standalone names, not just a nickname, across the English-speaking world.
How do you pronounce Alex?
Alex is pronounced AL-eks. Common variations include Alec, Alexis, Alexei.
Is Alex a boy name?
Yes, Alex is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Al, Lex.