Meaning, origin, history
Alexis is a gender-neutral name of Greek origin, derived from the masculine given name Alexander. The name Alexander has a rich history and means "defending men" or "helper of mankind," which can be traced back to the ancient Greek language. It was popularized by Alexander the Great, the renowned Macedonian king who conquered much of the known world in the 4th century BCE.
The name Alexis is a shorter form of Alexander and shares its meaning. It has been used as both a masculine and feminine given name throughout history but has gained popularity as a female name in recent decades. In France, for instance, Alexis is predominantly used as a girl's name, while in other countries like Greece and Russia, it remains more commonly associated with boys.
In literature and popular culture, Alexis has been featured in various works such as "The Count of Monte Cristo" by Alexandre Dumas, where it is the name of one of the main characters. Additionally, several famous individuals have borne this name, including American actress Alexis Bledel and French fashion designer Alexis Mabille.
Overall, Alexis is a classic and versatile name with deep historical roots, suitable for both boys and girls alike. Its meaning signifies strength, leadership, and helpfulness, qualities that can be attributed to many notable figures throughout history who have carried this name.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Alxis since 1880
Total births
16
Total since 1880
Peak year
2000
6 births
in 2000
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years