Alexis is a name of Greek origin, derived from the Greek word 'alexein', which means 'to defend' or 'to protect'. It is believed to have been first used as a Christian name in honor of the first bishop of Myra, who was martyred in the fourth century AD.
The name Alexis has been popular throughout history. In ancient times, it was often given to boys in hopes that they would grow up to be strong and brave defenders of their families and communities. In the Middle Ages, it was a common name among the nobility, with several kings and princes named Alexis.
Today, Alexis is still a popular name for boys around the world. It has also become increasingly popular as a girl's name in recent years, likely due to its association with the famous French writer Alexandre Dumas' novel "The Count of Monte Cristo," whose main character is named Albert Mondego, known by his friends as Alexis.
Overall, the name Alexis carries a strong and protective connotation, making it a fitting choice for parents looking for a name that embodies strength and resilience. Its rich history and international popularity make it a versatile option for boys or girls alike.
The name Alexis has a rich history and popularity that spans over nearly a century in the United States. According to the data provided, here's an overview of its usage:
From 1931 to 1960, the birth count for the name Alexis remained relatively low, fluctuating between 5 and 248 births per year. The highest recorded number during this period was in 1947 with 248 births.
However, from 1970 onwards, we see a significant increase in the popularity of the name Alexis. In 1970 alone, there were 353 births, marking a substantial rise compared to previous years. This trend continued through the decades:
* In 1982, Alexis became even more popular with 3122 births recorded.
* By 1993, it reached an all-time high of 10833 births.
* The peak popularity of the name Alexis was maintained until 2002, with over 15,000 births recorded each year.
After reaching its peak in 2002, there has been a steady decline in the popularity of the name Alexis. However, it remains a widely used name:
* In 2020, there were 1031 births recorded for Alexis.
* In 2021, this number decreased slightly to 947 births.
* As of 2022, there have been 875 births recorded so far.
Overall, the name Alexis has had a fascinating journey in terms of popularity over the past century. While it started off as a less common choice, it gained significant traction from the 1970s onwards and maintained its popularity until recent years. Despite the decline since 2002, Alexis remains a well-loved and widely used name across the United States.