What does Aleksei mean and where does it come from?
The name Aleksei is traditionally male in Russian contexts but has become popular as a female name in modern cultures. It is derived from the Greek name 'Alexios', which means 'defender' or 'protector'. The name has historical significance with several notable figures, including Aleksei Romanov, a m
Cultural significance
Aleksei has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Russia-speaking communities, where it reflects values of defender.
Peak popularity
Reached #13225 in 1996 — currently #988 in the US.
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Related Reading
Russia-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Aleksei?
Aleksei works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Aleksei Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Aleksei Rose
Floral · soft ending
Aleksei Mae
Sweet · timeless
Aleksei Claire
French influence · crisp
Aleksei Jane
Literary · strong
Aleksei Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Aleksei right now?
Holding steady — currently #988 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #988 | 1,212 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #993 | 1,192 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #998 | 1,162 | — |
The story of Aleksei
Aleksei is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1996. With 406 total births recorded, Aleksei remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #998 in 2021 to #988 in 2023. Aleksei is used for both genders: 3% female and 97% male.
Names that peaked alongside Aleksei in 1996:
Aleksei by decade
Aleksei peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1990s | 84 | |
| 2000s ★ | 175 | |
| 2010s | 133 | |
| 2020s | 14 | |
💎Aleksei has only 406 total recorded births since 1996 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Aleksei?
RUSSIAN
AleksAlyoshaLyosha
What names sound and feel like Aleksei?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Aleksei also consider these
How is Aleksei written in other languages?
Алексей
Russian), Олексій (Ukrainian), Аляксей (Belarusian
Gender variants of Aleksei
Common questions about the name Aleksei
What does the name Aleksei mean?
Aleksei means "Defender" — a name rooted in Russia tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Aleksei?
Aleksei is currently ranked #988 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Aleksei?
Aleksei originates from Russia tradition. Russia names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
What sibling names go well with Aleksei?
Aleksei pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Russia heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Is Aleksei a common or rare name?
Aleksei is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.