Alois is a masculine given name of Germanic origin. It is derived from the Old High German words "Adal" and "wolf", which together mean "noble wolf". The name has been associated with several notable figures throughout history, most famously Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, an Italian saint who was born into nobility but chose to live a life of poverty and service to others.
The name Alois gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly in German-speaking countries. It was the given name of Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria, whose wife Empress Elisabeth of Bavaria was known for her beauty and her tragic fate. The name has also been used by several members of the House of Habsburg-Lorraine, the royal family that ruled over the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Today, Alois is still a popular given name in German-speaking countries, as well as in other parts of Europe such as Poland and the Czech Republic. It is often shortened to the familiar forms Aloi or Aloisius, and it has also inspired several variations such as Alain, Alan, and Allan. Despite its historic associations with nobility and royalty, Alois remains a timeless and versatile name that can be used across different cultures and languages.
The name Alois has a rich history in the United States, with its popularity fluctuating over time. Between 1880 and 1966, there were a total of 2511 babies named Alois born in the U.S.
In the late 19th to early 20th century, the name saw some peaks in popularity. For instance, between 1880 and 1914, there were over 30 births per year on average, with a significant spike in 1912 (51 births) and 1913 (54 births). This trend continued into the early 1920s, with an average of around 60 births per year between 1920 and 1927.
However, the popularity of Alois began to decline in the late 1920s. From 1930 onwards, the number of yearly births with this name consistently fell below 50, reaching a low point of just 5 births per year between 1960 and 1975.
In recent years, Alois has seen a slight resurgence in popularity. Between 2013 and 2022, there have been an average of around 8 births per year with this name, suggesting that Alois is still a recognizable choice for parents today.
While the name Alois may not be as popular as it once was, its unique sound and rich history make it an appealing option for parents seeking a distinctive name for their child.