What does Regis mean and where does it come from?
Regis is traditionally a masculine name in French, meaning 'of the king' or 'royal'. However, it has emerged as a modern feminine name in certain contexts. The name is derived from the Latin word 'regis', meaning 'king'. Influenced by the notion of royalty, it conveys elegance and nobility. Notable
Cultural significance
Regis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of of the king, regal.
Peak popularity
Reached #2777 in 1912 — currently #9509 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
France-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Regis?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Regis?
Regis works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Regis Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Regis John
One syllable · timeless choice
Regis Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Regis Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Regis Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Regis Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Regis right now?
Falling — down 1867 spots — currently #9509 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #9509 | 8 | ▼ down 1867 · -27% births |
| 2024 | #7642 | 11 | ▼ down 5742 · -96% births |
| 2023 | #1900 | 300 | ▲ up 5 · +7% births |
| 2022 | #1905 | 280 | ▲ up 5 · +12% births |
| 2021 | #1910 | 250 | ▲ up 11160 · +4900% births |
| 1990 | #13070 | 5 | ▼ down 3664 · -17% births |
| 1985 | #9406 | 6 | ▼ down 1153 · -14% births |
| 1980 | #8253 | 7 | ▼ down 129 · +40% births |
| 1970 | #8124 | 5 | ▼ down 2326 · -17% births |
| 1960 | #5798 | 6 | ▼ down 479 |
| 1955 | #5319 | 6 | ▼ down 1335 |
| 1940 | #3984 | 6 | ▲ up 368 · +20% births |
| 1935 | #4352 | 5 | ▼ down 904 · -37% births |
| 1930 | #3448 | 8 | ▲ up 1 · -11% births |
| 1925 | #3449 | 9 | — |
The story of Regis
Regis entered American naming records in 1912 and has been in use for over 112 years. With 5,491 total births recorded, Regis remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4405 in 1915 to #1900 in 2023. Regis is used for both genders: 6% female and 94% male.
Names that peaked alongside Regis in 1912:
Regis by decade
Regis peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 5 | |
| 1900s | 48 | |
| 1910s | 533 | |
| 1920s | 744 | |
| 1930s | 787 | |
| 1940s ★ | 886 | |
| 1950s | 720 | |
| 1960s | 447 | |
| 1970s | 262 | |
| 1980s | 449 | |
| 1990s | 349 | |
| 2000s | 136 | |
| 2010s | 111 | |
| 2020s | 33 | |
💎With 5,491 total births, Regis is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Regis?
What names sound and feel like Regis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Regis also consider these
Common questions about the name Regis
What does the name Regis mean?
Regis means "of the king, regal" — a name rooted in France 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 Regis?
Regis is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Regis?
Regis originates from France tradition. France names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Regis?
Regis is a two-syllable name pronounced REE-jis. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Regis a common or rare name?
Regis is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.