Girl
Greek
3 syllables
Alexis
ah-LEK-sis
/əˈlɛksɪs/
"The helper" — a name of dynamic strength, versatility, and bright charisma
Alexis is a Greek name meaning 'defender' or 'helper,' originally used for both boys and girls in ancient Greece. In the modern era it became firmly established as a feminine name in the United States, particularly through the glamorous character Alexis Carrington on the 1980s soap opera Dynasty. The name conveys a spirited independence and sleek sophistication, remaining a perennial favorite for parents who want something both strong and stylish.
Quick Facts
Letters6
SyllablesA · lex · is
GenderGirl
OriginGreek
Root WordAlexein
MeaningDefender, helper
PopularityPopular
Peak Year1999
Trend
→ Stable
Name DayFebruary 17
Nicknames
AlexLexiLexAli
About the Name Alexis
Alexis means 'defender' or 'helper,' from the Greek alexein meaning 'to defend or protect.' Unlike the full form Alexandra which means specifically 'defender of men,' Alexis has a broader sense of protection and aid, giving it a slightly more universal feel. It was used as both a masculine and feminine name in ancient Greece.
Alexis is used for both genders but has become predominantly feminine in the United States and many English-speaking countries. In some European countries, particularly France and Spain, it is still commonly used for boys. Its Greek origins were gender-neutral, making it one of the more flexible names in the classical tradition.
Alexis is associated with confidence, independence, and a sharp, quick mind. People named Alexis are often seen as natural leaders who are also genuinely helpful to others — reflecting both sides of the name's meaning. They tend to be sociable, ambitious, and not afraid to speak their truth.
Alexis was one of the most popular girls' names in the United States during the 1990s, peaking in the top 10 around 1994. It has since declined from its peak but remains solidly popular, consistently appearing in the top 100–150. It remains more popular in the US than in most other English-speaking countries.
Alexis pairs well with one- or two-syllable middles. Beautiful combinations include Alexis Grace, Alexis Marie, Alexis Jade, Alexis Renee, and Alexis Brooke. The name's crisp ending consonant sounds best before middles that begin with a vowel or soft consonant.
Alexis is ancient Greek in origin, derived from the verb alexein meaning 'to defend, protect, or help.' It appeared in classical Greek literature and was borne by several ancient figures including the comic poet Alexis of Thurii. The name spread through Latin into medieval Europe and eventually became fashionable in the English-speaking world in the 20th century.
Personality of Alexis
Perceived character traits commonly associated with people named Alexis
Creativity
76%
Elegance
80%
Independence
92%
Intelligence
84%
Strength
86%
Warmth
74%
Famous People Named Alexis
A
Alexis Bledel
American actress, Rory Gilmore in Gilmore Girls
A
Alexis Texas
Well-known name in popular culture
A
Alexis Sanchez
Chilean footballer, although typically a male bearer in that culture
A
Alexis Carrington
Iconic fictional character in Dynasty, played by Joan Collins
Middle Names for Alexis
Beautiful combinations that flow well with Alexis
Alexis Grace
Alexis Marie
Alexis Nicole
Alexis Renee
Alexis Jade
Alexis Brooke
Alexis Skye
Alexis Elise
Alexis Paige
Alexis Danielle
Alexis Rose
Alexis Ann
Names Similar to Alexis
Similar Sound
Similar Meaning
Sibling Name Ideas
History of Alexis
400 BCE
Alexis of Thurii, ancient Greek comic poet, carries the name in classical antiquity
1981
Dynasty premieres on ABC featuring the iconic Alexis Carrington, catapulting the name to fame
1994
Alexis enters the US top 10 girls' names, its highest ranking ever
2000
Name peaks and begins a gradual decline as newer choices gain favor
Numerology & Symbolism of Alexis
7
Destiny Number
Sum of all letters
6
Soul Urge
Sum of vowels
♍
Zodiac Affinity
Gemini
3
Lucky Number
Personal power digit
🎨
Lucky Color
Cobalt Blue
💎
Lucky Stone
Aquamarine
🌸
Lucky Flower
Lavender
Alexis Around the World
How Alexis is written in different languages and scripts
أليكسيس
Arabic
アレクシス
Japanese
Алексис
Russian
알렉시스
Korean
亚历克西斯
Chinese
Αλέξης
Greek
एलेक्सिस
Hindi
אלכסיס
Hebrew
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